The recent gathering in Oslo reaffirmed the commitment between India and Norway towards enhanced cooperation in environmental and climate issues. This was the 12th meeting of the Joint Working Group on Environment, conducted on 10th and 11th September 2026. Delegations from both nations reviewed ongoing efforts addressing significant environmental challenges.

The Indian delegation was led by Secretary Shri Tanmay Kumar from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The discussions covered critical topics such as plastic pollution, circular economy practices, climate change strategies, carbon markets, and sustainable practices for ocean management.

In a statement, the Indian Embassy in Norway noted the review of collaborative projects on marine pollution, environmental research, and waste recycling. The meeting served as a platform to reinforce their mutual dedication to strengthening environmental and climate cooperation under the framework of the Green Strategic Partnership.

Recent Bilateral Engagements

The bilateral dialogue between India and Norway has been ongoing, with recent meetings reflecting the evolving global priorities. These discussions included a meeting in June between Norway’s Ambassador to India, May-Elin Stener, and Aparna Ray, who serves as the Joint Secretary for Policy Planning and Research at the Ministry of External Affairs.

Ambassador Stener expressed her optimism regarding the continued partnership, specifically mentioning the importance of addressing global trends and collaborating on various fronts. The conversations aimed at exploring ways to deepen this multifaceted relationship were a significant aspect of their engagement.

This dialogue indicates an active and dynamic relationship between the two countries, highlighting their shared objectives in addressing current global challenges related to environmental sustainability and cooperation on other strategic fronts.

Milestones in India-Norway Relations

Bilateral relations between India and Norway entered a new phase in May 2026 during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day official visit to Norway. His participation in the India-Nordic Summit and bilateral engagements marked a key moment in their partnership.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi met his Norwegian counterpart, Jonas Gahr Store. Their discussions resulted in the elevation of bilateral ties to a Green Strategic Partnership, focusing on areas such as innovation, research, education, healthcare, and skill development.

Following the meeting, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the significance of this partnership on social media, stating that the upgrade would enhance synergies in clean energy, sustainable development, and the blue economy, among other sectors. His comments emphasised both nations’ commitment to fostering collaboration in multiple sectors for mutual benefit.

As part of the visit, Prime Minister Modi participated in the Business and Research Summit, where he underscored India’s proactive economic reforms, particularly aiming to attract Norwegian investments in clean energy initiatives. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the ‘Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit’, underscoring the strengthening ties between the two nations.

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