PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called for a resolution of the West Asia crisis and the Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy, asserting that military action alone cannot achieve lasting peace. Modi made the remarks after holding wide-ranging talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store that focused on boosting the overall trajectory of bilateral relations. “India and Norway, both, believe in a rules-based order, dialogue, and diplomacy. We agree that no issue can be resolved through military conflict alone,” Modi said in his televised statement to the media. “Be it Ukraine or West Asia, we will continue to support every effort for the early end of the conflict and for peace,” he said. Modi met Store hours after he landed in Oslo from Sweden as part of his four-nation European tour. In his remarks, the Prime Minister also underlined the need for reform of the global institutions. “We also agree on this point that reforming global institutions is essential for addressing the growing global challenges.” “And eradicating terrorism in every form from its roots is our shared commitment,” he noted. Modi also complimented Norway for its support to India following last year’s Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, mostly tourists.

 

“I was supposed to visit Norway last year, but had to postpone that trip due to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. During that difficult time, Norway stood firmly with India against terrorism, demonstrating true friendship,” he said. “Today, as I visit Norway, I express my heartfelt gratitude for that solidarity,” he said. Modi also hailed Norway’s decision to join the India-led Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. “As two major maritime nations, we will work together to strengthen cooperation in the marine economy, maritime security, and capacity building,” he said. PM Modi meets Norway King in Oslo: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called on King Harald V of Norway and highlighted India’s rapid transformation and the emerging opportunities it offers for Norwegian businesses. PM Modi called on King Harald V at the Royal Palace. “In Oslo, called on King Harald V of Norway. We had an excellent conversation on the India-Norway friendship and how our nations can keep working together across sectors for the benefit of our people,” Modi posted on X. During the meeting, PM Modi conveyed the greetings and best wishes of the people of India, according to a statement.

 

“He appreciated the natural beauty of Norway and underlined that the long-standing friendship between India and Norway continues to grow stronger, anchored in shared values of democracy, the rule of law, and people-centric governance,” the statement added. Prime Minister Modi and the King also discussed the impressive strides made by Indian and Norwegian companies across diverse sectors, particularly in new technologies, the statement said. King Harald V conferred upon PM Modi Norway’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit, for his contribution in advancing the India-Norway relationship and his leadership. PM Modi “highlighted India’s rapid transformation and the emerging opportunities it offers for Norwegian businesses and partners in technology and innovation,” Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a post on X. The King hosted a luncheon in honour of PM Modi.