: Monday, May 18, 2026 9:35 PM
Oslo. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gehr Storey on Monday stressed the importance of deeper cooperation between India and Norway to maintain the rules-based international order amid rising geopolitical tensions and growing protectionism. He also said that the two countries should remain united in opposing the use of diplomacy, trade and technology as coercion in global affairs. At a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PM Storey said, “We must stand up against those who weaponize diplomacy, trade and technology. In a time of rising protectionism and increasingly tense geopolitical dynamics, it is more important than ever to stand together for the rules-based order. And we have been able to discuss some of the biggest issues facing us today, like the war in Ukraine and the war in the Middle East. I am committed to handling and resolving these issues.” I appreciate this direct contact between the diplomats of Norway and India.” He further said that while India and Norway may not always agree on every issue, both remain staunch democratic partners who manage differences through respectful dialogue.
Storey stressed, “India is not always unanimous on all issues. No one is, and we are both respectable democracies that handle those issues according to democratic standards. But Mr. Prime Minister, what unites us today is more important: the belief that cooperation delivers better results than unilateralism and isolation, especially when it comes to global challenges.”
Highlighting the importance of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Norway, Storey said that in a world of uncertainty, rapid change and growing differences, it is very important to deepen engagement with countries that share common values. He said that similar democratic principles are more important than differences in viewpoint.
The Norwegian PM said, “At a time of uncertainties and rapid changes in the world, polarization and strife, it is important to strengthen and build contacts with countries with whom we share common internal values. There may be differences, but they are small compared to the huge challenges facing the world, and we need to work together. Partnerships matter, especially between democracies that have similar interests and that follow the same rules in the global community.”
He further said, “In this spirit, your visit to Oslo is a must. It reflects the growing partnership between India and Norway and the shared desire to truly strengthen our cooperation in many areas. We may be separated in geography, culture, size and history, but we have much to gain by working together. Today, we will sign and underline a number of agreements that will take this partnership forward.”
Norwegian PM Storey said India and Norway are elevating this relationship to a Green Strategic Partnership, creating a framework to collaborate on knowledge, resources and ambitions for a green transition, where both countries are equally committed to success.
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Web Title-PM Modi’s Oslo Visit Symbolizes Growing Partnership and Shared Ambitions: Norwegian PM Støre