The recent summit in Oslo saw India and the Nordic countries affirm the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) vital position in the multilateral trading system. During the third India-Nordic Summit, leaders collectively recognised the significance of the WTO in promoting a fair and transparent framework for global trade governance.

A joint statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed that the leaders focused on the importance of maintaining a rules-based, inclusive, and equitable multilateral trading environment. They acknowledged the substantial economic exchanges between India and the Nordic nations aimed at fostering sustainable development and resilient supply chains.

List of outcomes (8 in total) : PM @narendramodi’s participation at the 3rd India-Nordic Summit ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/9H4GMUCbVf

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) May 19, 2026

In their discussions, the leaders emphasised the necessity of ensuring that trade governance remains non-discriminatory and open to all stakeholders. This commitment underscored the collaborative spirit present at the summit, as representatives explored avenues for expanding economic cooperation.

Key Agreements on Trade and Investment

The summit welcomed the implementation of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) and noted advancements on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA). These agreements are seen as crucial steps in enhancing trade and investment flows while contributing to sustainable economic growth.

According to the joint statement, these initiatives are intended to not only improve market access but also to lower trade barriers, thereby strengthening economic security through diversified value chains. Leaders highlighted that the TEPA aims for EFTA states to invest $100 billion in India, which is expected to lead to the creation of one million direct jobs in the country.

Active business engagements during the summit were also underscored, with leaders advocating for continued dialogue to explore new collaborative opportunities. They reiterated the necessity of identifying potential avenues for growth in the ever-evolving trade landscape, benefitting all parties involved.

Strengthening Maritime Security Collaboration

Maritime security cooperation was another focal point during the summit, with leaders agreeing to bolster collective efforts in this crucial area. A commitment was made to upholding a free and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, grounded in international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The leaders expressed their anticipation of joint activities under bilateral dialogues and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), aligning with the vision of ‘MAHASAGAR’, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. This vision underscores the importance of collaborative security measures in maritime domains.

Additionally, the leaders addressed the pressing issues of illicit maritime activities, including piracy, contraband smuggling, and illegal fishing practices. They underscored the need for compliance with relevant maritime regulations and acknowledged the initiation of Maritime Security Dialogues with Norway and Denmark to enhance cooperation in this domain.

Enhanced information sharing and inter-agency coordination were highlighted as essential components in ensuring the safety and security of seafarers. The leaders committed to working together to tackle these challenges, ensuring a secure maritime environment.

Attendance and Historical Context of the Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the summit alongside leaders from Denmark, Norway, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden, under the stewardship of Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. This event built on previous India-Nordic summits held in Stockholm in 2018 and Copenhagen in 2022, signifying a continuity in strengthening relations between India and the Nordic region.

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