Norwegian FM Praises PM Modi Visit, Calls India A Key Global Partner

Norwegian Foreign Affairs Minister Espen Barth Eide on Tuesday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing visit to Norway as “very fruitful,” calling India an “important partner” for Norway amid growing cooperation between the two countries.

In an interview, Eide said Norway highly values its partnership with India, noting that the country is rapidly emerging as the world’s third-largest economy. He emphasized that in a changing global order, traditional alliances must evolve, and cooperation with India is increasingly significant for addressing global challenges.

Eide praised India’s role on the international stage, stating that Norway appreciates engaging with New Delhi on shaping future global frameworks. He highlighted India’s growing economic and political influence and said it was important for countries like Norway to work closely with India as a responsible global actor.

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Responding to questions about calls for Prime Minister Modi to be considered for the Nobel Peace Prize, the Norwegian Foreign Minister clarified that the Norwegian government has no role in selecting recipients, as the decision is made independently by the Nobel Committee. He added that he would not comment on individual nominations or candidates.

The minister also reflected on his personal interactions with PM Modi, noting that he had spoken with the Indian Prime Minister during the visit and shared memories of his first trip to India in 1974. He recounted travelling from Delhi to Varanasi by steam-engine train, a story he said Modi enjoyed hearing, given that the Indian leader represents Varanasi in Parliament.

Prime Minister Modi is currently on a two-day visit to Norway, where he has held talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, participated in the India-Norway Business and Research Summit, and was conferred with Norway’s highest honour, the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit, by King Harald V.

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