New Delhi: The Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), in force since October 1, 2025, is expected to give fresh momentum to India–Norway trade, technology, and investment ties. Senior officials from both countries highlighted this during bilateral discussions held in Oslo on Monday.
The 12th round of Foreign Office Consultations between India and Norway placed the spotlight on leveraging TEPA to unlock new opportunities across sectors. The Indian delegation was led by Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Sibi George, while the Norwegian side was headed by Torgeir Larsen, Secretary General of the Royal Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Beyond trade, the two sides reviewed the overall trajectory of bilateral relations and agreed that TEPA would act as a catalyst for deeper collaboration in advanced technologies, innovation-driven industries, and sustainable investment. Officials noted that the agreement provides a strong institutional framework to expand economic engagement and strengthen long-term partnerships.
Discussions also covered cooperation in areas such as the blue economy, maritime affairs and shipping, renewable energy, circular economy practices, education, science and technology, artificial intelligence, space, and Arctic-related issues. India reiterated its commitment to strengthening ties with Norway as well as with the broader Nordic region, according to a Ministry of External Affairs release.
Multilateral cooperation featured prominently in the talks, with both sides exchanging views on developments at the UN and on regional and global issues of mutual interest. They underlined the importance of continued dialogue and coordination in addressing shared global challenges.
During his visit, George also met with Norway’s State Secretary for Trade and Industry, Ragnhild Sjoner Syrstad, to explore ways to deepen economic engagement. He later interacted with members of the Indian community in Oslo, acknowledging their role in reinforcing people-to-people links.
