Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Alexander Stubb of Finland have officially elevated the bilateral relationship between their nations to a Strategic Partnership, emphasising collaboration in digitalisation and sustainability. The leaders pinpointed emerging technologies, including 5G, 6G, Artificial Intelligence, and quantum computing, as critical areas for enhanced cooperation. Their discussions were aimed at fostering collaborations in digital transformation and innovation, recognizing the vital role that technology plays in driving inclusive social and economic progress.

Joint Working Group on Digitalisation to be Established

In a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, it was noted that both leaders acknowledged the pervasive impact of digitalisation. They expressed intent to expand partnerships based on mutual trust in various sectors, focusing particularly on high-performance computing and advanced technologies. As part of this initiative, they directed relevant ministries to form a cross-sectoral Joint Working Group on Digitalisation, which will outline strategic priorities and implement concrete initiatives to facilitate digital advancement.

Recognition of Indian Professionals in Finland

President Stubb acknowledged the significant contributions of Indian professionals to Finland’s research and development landscape. Their participation in the technology innovation ecosystem was noted as instrumental in promoting digital transition and sustainability. The leaders reflected on the importance of this collaboration for fostering socio-economic development.

Collaborative Research and Innovation Initiatives Announced

The two leaders celebrated emerging joint initiatives between India’s Department of Science and Technology and Business Finland, aimed at enhancing research and development (RDI) cooperation. These initiatives are designed to fund collaborative projects between companies and research organizations from both countries, particularly focusing on semiconductors, 6G technologies, and energy systems. They also mentioned ongoing collaborations involving the Bharat 6G Alliance and the University of Oulu, which aim to bolster progress in 6G technology development.

Expanding Partnerships in Artificial Intelligence

Further discussions took place on expanding collaboration between India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Business Finland, with a focus on research and innovation in Artificial Intelligence. Both sides acknowledged the dialogues between India’s Centre for Development of Advanced Computing and Finland’s CSC – IT Center for Science regarding high-performance computing collaborations.

Potential in Space Technology Highlighted

Space technology emerged as a potential area for future cooperation, with both nations recognizing the importance of engagement between private sectors in India and Finland. During the discussions, President Stubb commended India for its successful hosting of the AI Impact Summit, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring safe and trustworthy development in this field.

Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals Reinforced

During their talks, the leaders reaffirmed the long-standing friendship between India and Finland, rooted in shared democratic values and mutual respect for international law. They reiterated their commitment to a rules-based international order, emphasizing global cooperation led by the United Nations. The leaders focused strongly on accelerating actions to meet the Sustainable Development Goals, stressing the need for international unity in addressing challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss.

Free Trade Agreement Significance Underlined

Both leaders welcomed the recent Free Trade Agreement between India and the European Union, finalized during the India-EU Summit in late January. They indicated that this agreement would enhance trade and investment opportunities, particularly intensifying economic ties between India and Finland. Building upon previous engagements, including the India-Finland Virtual Summit and meetings during the India-Nordic Summits, both sides expressed a clear commitment to further deepen cooperation.

State Visit and Participation in Raisina Dialogue

President Stubb’s State Visit to India, spanning from March 4 to 7, includes stops in New Delhi and Mumbai. He is accompanied by Finland’s Minister of Climate and the Environment, Sari Multala, and Minister of Employment Matias Marttinen, along with a high-ranking delegation of officials and business leaders. The visit includes participation in the 11th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, where President Stubb delivered the inaugural keynote address. This visit follows the earlier trip of Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo to India for the AI Impact Summit.

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