India and Norway held high-level discussions aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and accelerating investments in sustainable and maritime technologies, signaling a renewed momentum in bilateral ties following recent trade agreements with Europe.

Sibi George, Secretary (West) at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, met with Ragnhild Sjoner Syrstad, State Secretary in Norway’s Ministry of Trade and Industry, in Oslo on Monday. The two officials reviewed ongoing economic engagement and explored new avenues for collaboration, particularly in green energy, ocean-based industries, and innovation-led sectors.

Following the meeting, India’s MEA spokesperson said the talks were “productive” and focused on deepening economic relations after the implementation of the India–European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (India–EFTA–TEPA). Both sides emphasized the potential for increased investment flows, technology transfer, and joint research in clean energy, renewable technologies, and the blue economy.

The discussions come in the wake of a major diplomatic breakthrough in India’s engagement with Europe. On January 27, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen jointly announced the conclusion of the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement at the 16th India–EU Summit in New Delhi.

Under the new trade framework, tariffs on more than 90 percent of EU goods exported to India will be eliminated or significantly reduced. This includes sharp reductions on machinery, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and industrial products, as well as near-total elimination of duties on aircraft, spacecraft, and certain high-tech goods. The agreement is expected to make European products more competitive in India while opening new market opportunities for Indian exporters in Europe.

Earlier the same day, Sibi George also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora in Norway. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the strategic importance of India–EFTA and India–EU trade agreements and their potential to create jobs, boost investment, and enhance India’s global economic footprint.

He underlined India’s growing role as a leader of the Global South and its increasing influence in international economic and geopolitical forums. Praising the Indian community in Norway, he described them as a “vital bridge” strengthening people-to-people ties, cultural exchange, and business links between the two nations.

The diaspora event featured cultural performances, including a classical dance presentation, and concluded with the singing of the Indian national anthem, reflecting strong patriotic sentiment among attendees.

George arrived in Oslo on Sunday for the 12th Foreign Office Consultations with Torgier Larsen, Secretary General of Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Upon his arrival, India’s Ambassador to Norway, Gloria Gangte, warmly welcomed him, describing the visit as an opportunity to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors.

The consultations are expected to cover a broad range of issues, including trade, energy transition, maritime collaboration, climate action, education, and innovation partnerships. Both governments have expressed a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties based on common democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law.

India and Norway established diplomatic relations in February 1947 and have since maintained friendly and constructive engagement. In recent years, cooperation has expanded beyond traditional diplomacy to include renewable energy, ocean governance, climate solutions, digital innovation, and sustainable development.

As both countries look ahead, officials say the focus will be on translating agreements into tangible outcomes — from joint green projects and maritime research to increased investment, trade, and people-to-people collaboration.