PM Modi, Iceland counterpart Frostadottir discuss strengthening cooperation in clean energy, fisheries
Oslo, May 19
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Iceland counterpart Kristrun Frostadottir held a meeting on the sidelines of the third India-Nordic Summit in Oslo on Tuesday, during which they discussed strengthening cooperation in areas such as clean energy, fisheries, sustainability, geothermal energy, carbon capture and storage.
This was the first meeting between PM Modi and Frostadottir since the latter assumed office. PM Modi congratulated Prime Minister Frostadottir for being the youngest Prime Minister in the history of Iceland.
"Had a wonderful meeting with Prime Minister Kristrun Frostadottir of Iceland. India deeply values the friendship with Iceland. We talked about ways to improve ties in areas such as clean energy, fisheries, sustainability, geothermal energy, carbon capture and storage and more. Iceland's prowess in sectors relating to the Blue Economy is admirable. We are hopeful that the historic India-EFTA TEPA will give an impetus to trade and investment linkages as well," PM Modi posted on X following the meeting.
The two leaders discussed deepening ties, particularly in the context of coming into effect of India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), according to the statement released by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Both leaders noted that TEPA provides an excellent opportunity to unlock the true bilateral potential in trade, investment, and manufacturing collaboration.
"The two leaders also reviewed the progress of bilateral cooperation in sectors such as geothermal energy, fisheries, innovative technologies, creative economy, culture, tourism, mobility, and people-to-people contacts. They also discussed enhancing cooperation in the Arctic research," the MEA said in a statement.
During the meeting, PM Modi invited Kristrun Frostadottir to visit India in a mutually convenient time.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and other officials also attended the meeting.
Diplomatic relations between India and Iceland were established in 1972 and resident mission were opened in New Delhi in 2006 and in Reykjavik in 2008. According to the MEA, bilateral ties are underpinned by shared values of democracy, equality, human rights and rule of law. Iceland has also extended support to India's candidature for a permanent membership of the expanded UN Security Council.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting to see the focus on fisheries and the Blue Economy too. Our coastal communities could definitely benefit from Iceland's sustainable fishing practices. But I hope this cooperation also means more jobs and skill development for our local fishermen, not just big companies. 🤔
Great to see PM Modi engaging with all leaders, big or small. Iceland may be a small country, but it's a leader in renewable energy and sustainability. This is exactly the kind of smart diplomacy India needs. The TEPA agreement with EFTA could really boost our manufacturing exports!
I appreciate the cooperation, but I hope our government is also focusing on domestic renewable energy R&D and not just relying on imports or technology transfers. We have brilliant scientists and engineers who can develop indigenous solutions too. Let's learn from Iceland but also build our own capacity. 🙏
Arctic research cooperation is a smart move! As the Arctic becomes more accessible due to climate change, India needs to have a stake in understanding the region. Iceland is a perfect partner for this. And the PM inviting the Icelandic PM to India shows we're building lasting relationships, not just photo-op diplomacy. Chalein saath saath! 🚀
Please also discuss tourism and cultural exchanges! Iceland's unique landscapes are a dream destination for Indians, and India's heritage would fascinate Icelanders. This can strengthen people-to-people ties beyond just economic deals. Also, good to see the MEA focusing on equal partnerships with smaller nations too.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.