From Arctic to outer space: India, Norway clinch deals

NEW DELHI: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian PM to visit Norway in 43 years, the countries upgraded ties to a green strategic partnership, signed deals for cooperation in outer space, health and technology, while announcing 8 other outcomes from his meeting with counterpart Jonas Gahr Store. PM Modi also announced that both sides concluded a triangular development cooperation agreement that will allow them to jointly contribute to human development in countries of the Global South through India’s Digital Public Infrastructure projects.India, Norway condemn terror, call for early end to conflicts As India and Norway, which shares border with Russia, discussed the situation in Ukraine and also West Asia, Modi said both countries believe in a rules-based order, dialogue and diplomacy, and remain in agreement that no issue can be resolved through military conflict. “Whether it is Ukraine or West Asia, we support and will continue to support, every effort toward an early end to the conflicts and the restoration of peace,” said PM Modi. Store earlier said it is important for both countries to stand up against those who weaponise diplomacy trade and technology. “At a time of rising protectionism and more tense geopolitical dynamics, it’s more important than ever to stand together for a rule-based order,” he said. According to PM Modi, both sides agreed reform of global institutions is essential to address the growing global challenges and that eliminating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is a shared commitment. “The leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism, including crossborder terrorism, and urged concerted global action to deal with the menace,” said an Indian readout. He said the strategic partnership for green transition will help the world. “Through this strategic partnership, our companies will develop global solutions across sectors — from clean energy to climate resilience, and from the blue economy to green shipping — by combining India’s scale, speed, and talent with Norway’s technology and capital,” said PM.