The term ‘Nordic’ originates from the ancient Norse language of Europe and was later adopted into French and English. In English, ‘Nordic’ signifies ‘northern’—specifically, Northern Europe. Consequently, the countries of Northern Europe are referred to as Nordic countries. This group comprises five nations: Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and Finland. The region encompassed by these five countries is known as the Nordic region.
India regularly holds summits with these five nations, attended by the Prime Minister of India and the heads of government of the five Nordic countries.
The first India-Nordic Summit was held in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, in April 2018. Subsequently, the Second India-Nordic Summit took place in Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, in May 2022.
Third India-Nordic Summit
Continuing this series, the third summit was held on May 19, 2026, in Oslo, the capital of Norway. Indian Prime Minister Modi visited Norway to participate in this summit. During the same trip, Modi also visited the Netherlands. At the summit, both sides deliberated on key issues of mutual interest.
The significant outcomes of this summit are as follows:
1. Both sides elevated the status of their partnership, designating it as a ‘Green Technology and Strategic Partnership.’
2. Agreement on cooperation in clean energy and the ocean-based blue economy.
3. Cooperation in strengthening multilateralism.
4. Cooperation in the development of high-end technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI).
5. Agreement on cooperation in Arctic and polar research.
6. Agreement to boost trade and investment.
What are India’s interests in the Nordic region?
1. Nordic countries are highly advanced in terms of human development and consistently rank at the top of the United Nations Human Development Index. Their average per capita income is approximately $70,000. Furthermore, these nations are leaders in clean energy, sanitation, high technology, and environmental management. By forging development partnerships with these countries, India can advance its goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ (Developed India 2047).
2. India’s most significant interest in the Nordic region lies in Arctic research and the future utilization of the Northern Sea Route. The Arctic climate impacts India. Melting ice in the Arctic is creating the possibility of a shorter Northern Sea Route connecting India and Europe for navigation and trade. Additionally, the Arctic region holds immense potential for oil and mineral resources.
However, the Arctic is not a ‘global common’; instead, it falls under the control and management of the eight-member Arctic Council. In addition to the five Nordic countries, the Arctic Council includes the United States, Canada, and Russia. The Arctic Council was established in 1996. Membership is restricted to countries whose coastlines border the Arctic region. Therefore, cooperation with Nordic countries is essential for India to pursue its interests in the Arctic.
Arctic region surrounded by Arctic Circle. Image Courtesy: Britannica.
India’s efforts in the Arctic
The Arctic region extends from 66.5 degrees North latitude to the North Pole. To further its interests in the region, India established a research station named ‘Himadri’ in 2008 in the Svalbard region of Norway, with Norwegian cooperation; the station remains operational today. In 2013, India was granted observer status in the Arctic Council. Currently, India is making efforts to utilize the Northern Sea Route.
North Sea Route in Red. Image Courtesy: ORF
India announced a new Arctic Policy in 2021 to streamline its efforts in the Arctic region. India’s Arctic Policy comprises the following six pillars:
1. Science and Research – This includes strengthening research infrastructure and activities.
2. Climate and Environmental Protection – This involves studying the impact of melting Arctic ice on the Indian monsoon and Himalayan glaciers.
3. Economic and Human Development – This includes exploring possibilities for tourism, fisheries, and renewable energy sources, as well as the exploration of rare earth minerals, oil, and natural gas in the Arctic region.
4. Transport and Connectivity – This involves utilizing the Northern Sea Route.
5. Governance and International Cooperation – This entails strengthening India’s participation as an Observer in the Arctic Council.
6. National Capacity Building – This involves enhancing India’s capabilities to achieve the aforementioned goals.
The Goa-based National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), operating under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, has been designated as the nodal agency for the implementation of India’s Arctic policy.
Thus, it can be said that cooperation with Nordic countries is essential for India to safeguard its interests in the Arctic region and ensure the success of its Arctic policy. The India-Nordic Summit represents a significant effort in this direction.
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