New Delhi, May 12: India and Norway are exploring expanded collaboration in maritime industries, green energy and startups, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Oslo expected to further strengthen bilateral ties, according to Norwegian Ambassador May-Elin Stener.
Speaking ahead of the visit, Stener noted that the number of Norwegian companies operating in India has doubled over the past decade to around 160, reflecting growing economic engagement between the two countries. Nearly 70 per cent of these firms are concentrated in the maritime sector, highlighting its central role in bilateral cooperation.
“Norway is a major maritime nation, and India also has strong maritime ambitions. There are many opportunities for collaboration,” she said, adding that about 10 per cent of Norwegian-commissioned ships are now being built in India.
India’s maritime sector has witnessed significant progress in recent years, driven by initiatives such as the Sagarmala programme, which focuses on port modernisation, coastal connectivity and logistics efficiency. The government has also approved a ₹69,725 crore package to boost shipbuilding and strengthen the broader maritime ecosystem.
In the green energy space, Norway—long known for its oil and gas expertise—is transitioning towards cleaner technologies and is keen to support India’s energy transition. Norwegian firms are exploring partnerships to offer advanced technological solutions in renewable energy and sustainability.
Stener also highlighted India’s rapidly growing startup ecosystem, describing it as a hub of innovation. Norwegian startups are increasingly looking to collaborate with Indian counterparts through research partnerships and business engagements.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Norway on May 18–19 for the India-Nordic Summit will mark the first prime ministerial visit from India to the country in over four decades. The visit is expected to include bilateral meetings and participation in the India-Norway Business and Research Summit, aimed at unlocking new opportunities across key sectors.
