Oslo, Norway, 5 June 2025:
India and Norway have reaffirmed their growing maritime partnership through high-level bilateral meetings focused on advancing green shipping, digital port ecosystems, and Arctic route cooperation. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, met with Norway’s Transport Minister Jon-Ivar Nygård and Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy Marianne Sivertsen Næss during the Nor-Shipping 2025 event in Oslo.
A key highlight of the discussions was India’s offer to conduct a joint feasibility study with Norway to operationalise the Northern Sea Route (NSR)—a strategic Arctic shipping corridor. Both sides expressed strong interest in enhancing Arctic navigation, R&D on ice-class vessels, and using sustainable maritime technologies for polar operations.
Green Maritime Vision
In his talks with Transport Minister Nygård, Shri Sonowal emphasised India’s commitment to green maritime infrastructure under the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. He highlighted India’s progress in ship electrification, green hydrogen, and offshore wind energy.
India drew inspiration from Norway’s success in ferry system electrification and proposed joint efforts in building electric ferries and hydrogen-powered vessels for global markets. Sonowal underlined India’s readiness to adopt AI-powered port management and alternative fuels, with support from Norway’s maritime expertise.
“India’s ports are becoming clean energy hubs and gateways for global investments. With Norway’s partnership, we can lead the world in smart, low-carbon maritime logistics,” said Sonowal.
Digital Ports and Blue Economy
Discussions explored deepening cooperation on smart logistics, digital twins, AI in port operations, and e-Methanol bunkering systems. Norway’s digital port ecosystem aligns with India’s MAITRI initiative, aimed at transforming ports into eco-friendly hubs.
Ship Recycling & Ocean Energy
With Fisheries Minister Sivertsen Næss, the Indian delegation focused on ship recycling, sustainable fisheries, and ocean renewable energy. The Alang Ship Recycling Yard in Gujarat was cited as a potential site for collaboration in green ship-breaking technologies.
The leaders also discussed training programs for seafarers, especially in polar navigation, cybersecurity, and women’s inclusion. India’s “Saagar Mein Samman” initiative, aimed at promoting gender diversity in the maritime sector, was warmly received.
Joint Goals for the Future
Both nations expressed mutual respect and a shared commitment to sustainable development. The recent EFTA–India Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement was cited as a major milestone boosting economic ties.
Sonowal invited Norwegian firms to invest in:
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Ocean renewable energy (tidal and wind)
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Sustainable aquaculture
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Deep-sea exploration
The talks ended with optimism about converting these deliberations into actionable projects that promote a sustainable Blue Economy and inclusive global maritime governance.
“Our partnership is built on innovation, sustainability, and mutual growth. We look forward to deeper cooperation with Norway in transforming global maritime trade,” said Shri Sarbananda Sonowal.
