Team Blitz India
NORWAY’S deputy foreign minister Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik says the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is close to finalising a trade agreement with India, aiming to complete the deal ‘within a few days or weeks.” Kravik expressed EFTA’s keenness to seal the pact before India enters its election cycle, underlining the bloc’s “clear ambition” in this regard.
Addressing the key points of negotiations, particularly India’s reported call for a commitment from EFTA to invest up to $100 billion in the Indian economy over the next 15 years, Kravik refrained from divulging specifics but acknowledged the significance of discussing investment targets and potential repercussions of unmet goals.
Kravik, who is in India for the Raisina Dialogue 2024, spoke to the media and shed light on Norway’s priorities concerning bilateral relations with India, emphasising the country’s commitment to strengthening ties with India, a significant global player. Stressing the importance of good relations with the Global South, Kravik positioned India as a leader within this sphere, emphasising the impending free trade agreement as a means to bolstering the relationship, fostering mutual investments, and stimulating innovation, particularly in green technology and industries.
On the sideline of the Raisina Dialogue, Kravik met with Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi. The two ministers reaffirmed their countries’ commitment towards a long sustainable partnership.
Regarding the complexities of negotiating the trade deal, Kravik acknowledged the importance of setting investment targets while expressing confidence in meeting them, citing Norway’s robust economic growth and the enthusiastic response from Norwegian businesses eager to enter the Indian market.
He underscored the mutual benefits of collaboration in green technology, emphasising the complementary nature of the two economies and the high demand for Norwegian expertise in India.
On the international front, Kravik addressed Norway’s engagement with Afghanistan and emphasised the need for sustained international attention to ensure stability in the region. He highlighted the importance of appointing a UN special envoy and fostering dialogue between key stakeholders to address the evolving situation in Afghanistan.
Touching upon global concerns such as the conflict in Ukraine and Gaza, Kravik reiterated Norway’s commitment to upholding international law and emphasised the need for a unified and principled approach in addressing conflicts worldwide.
