Oslo, Feb 2 (NationPress) The Secretary (West) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Sibi George, engaged in discussions with Ragnhild Sjoner Syrstad, State Secretary of the Norwegian Ministry of Trade and Industry, in Oslo on Monday, focusing on enhancing economic ties and increasing investments in green and blue technology sectors.

Following their discussions, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the MEA, shared on X: "During the visit to Oslo, Secretary (West) Sibi George had a fruitful meeting with State Secretary, Ms. Ragnhild Sjoner Syrstad. They examined ways to deepen India-Norway economic relations post the implementation of India-EFTA-TEPA. They also explored boosting investments in green and blue technology sectors."

On January 27, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the successful conclusion of the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (India–EU FTA) during the 16th India–EU Summit in New Delhi.

The agreement entails the elimination or reduction of tariffs on over 90% of EU goods exported to India, including steep duties of up to 44% on machinery, 22% on chemicals, and 11% on pharmaceuticals, which are set to be phased out. Tariffs on EU beer will be reduced to 50%, while duties on chemicals, aircraft, and spacecraft will be eliminated for nearly all products.

Earlier in the day, George engaged with the Indian community in Norway, emphasizing the significance of the India–European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and EU-FTA agreements, India’s leadership in the Global South, and its growing global influence. He praised the Indian diaspora as a crucial link between India and Norway.

"H.E. Amb Sibi George, Secretary (West) at the MEA, interacted with the dynamic and diverse Indian diaspora in Norway. During this engagement, he underscored the importance of the diaspora in India’s growth and global outreach, while also spotlighting the India–EFTA and EU-FTA agreements, India’s leadership of the Global South, and its expanding global role," the Indian Embassy in Norway posted on X.

"He acknowledged the Indian diaspora's crucial role as a bridge between India and Norway. The event also included a classical dance performance by the Mudra team, and the singing of the National Anthem brought a patriotic spirit to the gathering," it added.

Sibi George arrived in Oslo on Sunday for the 12th Foreign Office Consultations with Torgier Larsen, Secretary General of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Upon his arrival, India's Ambassador to Norway Gloria Gangte warmly welcomed him.

In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Norway stated, "Warm welcome to H.E. Shri Sibi George, Secretary West, MEA India to Norway. Secretary (West) arrived in Oslo today for the 12th Foreign Office Consultations with his counterpart H.E Torgier Larsen, Secretary General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Norway. The visit aims to enhance India–Norway cooperation across key sectors and strengthen bilateral ties."

The bilateral relationship between India and Norway dates back to February 1947. Since then, the two countries have shared a cordial and friendly relationship, with mutual respect for their common values of democracy, human rights, and rule of law.