Norway, Ireland, and Spain have formally recognized the state of Palestine, joining over 140 of the 193 UN member countries. Norway’s Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide, told our Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, “It is the right thing to do at the right time.” Eide highlighted that India had recognized Palestine in the 1980s, a move Norway emulated last week. This recognition marks a significant diplomatic shift and reinforces Palestine's status on the international stage at the time when Israel Gaza situation continues to deteriorate. Watch in for more details!

Norway FM Espen Barth Eide speaks to WION: Why Norway Recognised Palestine statehood?

Norway, Ireland, and Spain have formally recognized the state of Palestine, joining over 140 of the 193 UN member countries. Norway’s Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide, told our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, “It is the right thing to do at the right time.” Eide highlighted that India had recognized Palestine in the 1980s, a move Norway emulated last week. This recognition marks a significant diplomatic shift and reinforces Palestine's status on the international stage at the time when Israel Gaza situation continues to deteriorate.

Norway FM Espen Barth Eide speaks on Palestinian statehood

Palestine recognition: Norway FM Espen Barth Eide speaks to WION

Spain, Ireland and Norway formally recognised a Palestinian state on Tuesday (May 28) in a coordinated decision slammed by Israel as a "reward" for Hamas, more than seven months into the devastating Gaza war. Watch in for more details!

EU states announce formal recognition of Palestinian state

Spain, Norway & Ireland formally recognise Palestinian state

In a move denounced by Israel as a "reward" for Hamas, Spain and Norway moved to formally recognise a Palestinian state with Ireland to follow suit on Tuesday. The three European nations think that their move has a powerful symbolic impact and will probably inspire other governments to take similar action.

In a move denounced by Israel as a "reward" for Hamas, Spain and Norway moved to formally recognise a Palestinian state with Ireland to follow suit on Tuesday. The three European nations think that their move has a powerful symbolic impact and will probably inspire other governments to take similar action. On the other hand, Denmark's parliament voted down a bill to recognise a Palestinian state on Tuesday Before calling a cabinet meeting, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated, "Recognition of the State of Palestine is not only a matter of historic justice... It is also an essential requirement if we are all to achieve peace." The action was "not against anyone, least of all Israel," Sanchez added. "It is the only way to move towards the solution that we all recognise as the only possible way to achieve a peaceful future -- that of a Palestinian state living side-by-side with the state of Israel in peace and security," Sanchez added. Furthermore, according to Sanchez, the decision was a reflection of Spain's "outright rejection of Hamas, which is against the two-state solution" and whose actions on October 7 sparked the Gaza War. Last week, the three countries' prime ministers made a synchronised declaration outlining their objectives. Also read: Israel-Hamas war LIVE: IDF tanks reach central Rafah as 1mn people flee Gaza city Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris said that it was "an important moment." He said that it sends "a signal to the world is that there are practical actions you can take as a country to help keep the hope... of a two-state solution alive." How did Israel react to this decision? Israel has reacted sharply to the decision, which has further strained its relations with Spain. Yolanda Diaz, Sanchez's far-left deputy, applauded the action last week, adding, "We cannot stop." Israel's envoy in Madrid blasted the statement as a "clear call for the elimination of Israel" and declared that "Palestine will be free from the river to the sea." "Sanchez, as long as you don't fire your deputy and you recognise a Palestinian state, you are participating in the incitement to commit genocide and war crimes against the Jewish people," Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz wrote on X on Tuesday. Where does the European Union stand? Recognising Palestinian statehood has sparked a heated debate between the European Union's 27 member nations. Formal Palestinian state recognition has long been viewed as the final stage of Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations. Following Tuesday, 145 of the 193 members of the UN officially acknowledged Palestinian statehood. The first EU member to recognise a state for Palestine was Sweden in 2014. Afterward, six other European nations, Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Romania made the same move. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognise Palestinian statehood as Israel fumes

Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, Finland, and Norway, all NATO members bordering Russia, have decided to join forces to build a “drone wall” to protect their borders.

Gravitas: Russia superior war-machinery makes NATO nervous, nations of US-led bloc plan 'drone wall'

The World Wide Fund for Nature's (WWF) Norwegian branch announced on Thursday that it would take legal action against Norway for opening up its seabed to mining without conducting adequate impact studies.

WWF calls Norway's sea-bed mining 'destructive'

The last piece of privately owned land in the strategic Svalbard archipelago in the Arctic is up for grabs for 300 million euros ($326 million), spurring China-Norway tensions.

But why China?&nbsp; 
 
China's 2018 white paper on the region is seen as a sign of Beijing’s Arctic ambitions. Since then, the country has defined itself as a "near-Arctic state" and envisages to play a growing role in the strategically valuable geography of the region.&nbsp; 
 
The archipelago is located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, in an Arctic region that has taken on greater geopolitical and economic importance over the years.&nbsp;

As the sea ice melts, new shipping routes open, increasing its strategic value, while relations grow ever frostier between Russia and the West.

Spanning 60 square kilometres (23 square miles), the Sore Fagerfjord property in southwestern Svalbard is home to mountains, plains, a glacier and nearly five kilometres of coastline, but no infrastructure.

"It's the last private land in Svalbard, and, to our knowledge, the last private land in the world's High Arctic," said lawyer Per Kyllingstad, who represents the sellers.

"The Chinese are naturally potential buyers since they've been showing a real interest in the Arctic and Svalbard for a long time," he said, adding that he had received "concrete signs of interest" from the country.

<h2>The 1920 Svalbard Treaty</h2>

Svalbard is governed by a 1920 international treaty that recognises Norway's sovereignty over it. However, citizens of all signatories, including China, are equally entitled to exploit the region's natural resources.&nbsp;

Russia, for example, has maintained a coal mining community on Svalbard, via the state-run company Trust Arktikugol, for decades. 
 
But times have changed.&nbsp;

<h2>Norway keen on protecting its sovereignty</h2>

Any mention of possible Chinese interest in Svalbard property raises "a red flag to force the Norwegian authorities to do something." 
 
Norway’s intelligence services say that the Sore Fagerfjord property falling into Chinese hands poses the biggest security risk to the Scandinavian country after Russia.

Norway's Attorney General has therefore ordered the owners-- a company controlled by a Russian-born Norwegian, according to local media -- to call off the planned sale.

The Norwegian state owns 99.5 per cent of Svalbard and has declared most of the land, including the Sore Fagerfjord property, protected areas where construction and motorised transport, among other things, are prohibited.

Nevertheless, the sellers cite the 1920 treaty. “They are obliged to treat all the parties to the treaty equally,” said Kyllingstad.

"The land can't be sold without the Norwegian authorities' approval," said Cecilie Myrseth, Trade and Industry Minister of Norway.&nbsp;

"Nor is it possible to hold negotiations about the property," she added.

That argument is based on clauses of an old loan granted by the state in 1919. However, Kyllingstad insists the clauses' statute of limitations has expired.&nbsp;

In 2016, the government paid 33.5 million euros to acquire the second-last piece of private land on Svalbard, near Longyearbyen, which was also reportedly being eyed by Chinese investors. Critics subsequently accused the government of being misled over unsubstantiated arguments.

In 2018-2019, the state had already engaged in negotiations to buy Sore Fagerfjord but the talks collapsed over the price.

Trade and Industry Minister Myrseth said the option was still open if the terms were "realistic".

While the sellers thought it fair to offer the land to the Norwegian government, they will ultimately sell to the highest bidder on the open market, said Kyllingstad.

(With inputs from agencies)

The last piece of privately owned land in the strategic Svalbard archipelago in the Arctic is up for grabs for 300 million euros ($326 million), spurring China-Norway tensions.

The last piece of privately owned land in the strategic Svalbard archipelago in the Arctic is up for grabs for 300 million euros ($326 million), spurring China-Norway tensions. But why China? China's 2018 white paper on the region is seen as a sign of Beijing’s Arctic ambitions. Since then, the country has defined itself as a "near-Arctic state" and envisages to play a growing role in the strategically valuable geography of the region. The archipelago is located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, in an Arctic region that has taken on greater geopolitical and economic importance over the years. As the sea ice melts, new shipping routes open, increasing its strategic value, while relations grow ever frostier between Russia and the West. Spanning 60 square kilometres (23 square miles), the Sore Fagerfjord property in southwestern Svalbard is home to mountains, plains, a glacier and nearly five kilometres of coastline, but no infrastructure. "It's the last private land in Svalbard, and, to our knowledge, the last private land in the world's High Arctic," said lawyer Per Kyllingstad, who represents the sellers. "The Chinese are naturally potential buyers since they've been showing a real interest in the Arctic and Svalbard for a long time," he said, adding that he had received "concrete signs of interest" from the country. The 1920 Svalbard Treaty Svalbard is governed by a 1920 international treaty that recognises Norway's sovereignty over it. However, citizens of all signatories, including China, are equally entitled to exploit the region's natural resources. Russia, for example, has maintained a coal mining community on Svalbard, via the state-run company Trust Arktikugol, for decades. But times have changed. Norway keen on protecting its sovereignty Any mention of possible Chinese interest in Svalbard property raises "a red flag to force the Norwegian authorities to do something." Norway’s intelligence services say that the Sore Fagerfjord property falling into Chinese hands poses the biggest security risk to the Scandinavian country after Russia. Norway's Attorney General has therefore ordered the owners-- a company controlled by a Russian-born Norwegian, according to local media -- to call off the planned sale. The Norwegian state owns 99.5 per cent of Svalbard and has declared most of the land, including the Sore Fagerfjord property, protected areas where construction and motorised transport, among other things, are prohibited. Nevertheless, the sellers cite the 1920 treaty. “They are obliged to treat all the parties to the treaty equally,” said Kyllingstad. "The land can't be sold without the Norwegian authorities' approval," said Cecilie Myrseth, Trade and Industry Minister of Norway. "Nor is it possible to hold negotiations about the property," she added. That argument is based on clauses of an old loan granted by the state in 1919. However, Kyllingstad insists the clauses' statute of limitations has expired. In 2016, the government paid 33.5 million euros to acquire the second-last piece of private land on Svalbard, near Longyearbyen, which was also reportedly being eyed by Chinese investors. Critics subsequently accused the government of being misled over unsubstantiated arguments. In 2018-2019, the state had already engaged in negotiations to buy Sore Fagerfjord but the talks collapsed over the price. Trade and Industry Minister Myrseth said the option was still open if the terms were "realistic". While the sellers thought it fair to offer the land to the Norwegian government, they will ultimately sell to the highest bidder on the open market, said Kyllingstad. (With inputs from agencies)

Strategic land in Arctic archipelago up for sale, stirs up China-Norway tensions

Norway-- Europe's largest oil and gas producer could now become the first nation to authorise seabed mining. The Norwegian authorities have taken another step towards the controversial mining of its seabed, arguing the importance of not relying on China for minerals essential for renewable technology.

Norway gears up for seabed mining

NATO is conducting maritime and air drills with participants from 13 countries well. Watch to know more.

NATO holds air and sea exercises along it's Eastern flak

Indigenous Sami reindeer herders in Norway say they can't lose any more land. And with the construction of a planned 34-mile-long power line to Western Europe’s largest liquified natural gas plant set for this summer, it's a big worry. Watch in for more details!

Norway: Indigenous reindeer herders worried about power line

The Norwegian Centre-left government says that it has planned a historic increase in defence spending of $56 billion in the next 12 years. Norway says that it is doing so to increase defence against Russia and other security challenges.

Norway to double Defence budget over next 12 years, plan to increase Naval fleet & Air defence

Social media platforms have been flooded with claims suggesting that a former member of Iraqi militia Salwan Momika, who is known for publicly burning Quran, has been found dead in Norway. These claims have sparked widespread attention and various posts are now being circulated across different platforms that Momika is dead.&nbsp;

One of the accounts on X social media platform posted, "The lifeless body of Iraqi refugee and Islam critic Salwan Sabah Matti Momika has been found in Norway. Momika was known for organizing demonstrations in Sweden where he publicly burn Koran several times."

Yet another one claimed, "Salwan Momika, who burnt the Holy Quran several times in Sweden, was found dead in Norway. He was possibly a frustrated asylum seeker who pretended to be anti-Muslim to get shelter in Europe."

Similarly, many other accounts went on making similar posts and several attributed Momika's death to his controversial actions and his ani-Islam stance.

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However, upon closer examination, these claims which gained much attention are proving to be painting a completely different picture.&nbsp;The Digital Forensics, Research and Analytics Center (DFRAC), a fact-checking website, looked into the matter to ascertain the veracity of the information being propagated on social media platforms.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/medellin-mayor-federico-gutierrez-imposes-6-month-prostitution-ban-after-incidents-in-tourist-hotspots-707260">Medellin Mayor Federico Gutierrez imposes 6-month prostitution ban after incidents in tourist hotspots</a>

Through their investigation, DFRAC found media reports that contradicted claims that are getting viral.

<h2>Claims v/s truth&nbsp;</h2>

While citing a report from the Norwegian newspaper website 'Document' which quoted the Police’s Immigration Unit, the fact checking website denied any knowledge of Salwan Momika's demise in Norway.

The said report said, “The Police’s Immigration Unit is not aware that Salwan Momika has been found dead in Norway. Thus, the rumours buzzing internationally have been denied. The police’s immigration unit (PU) is not aware that someone with the above name has died in Norway recently, we get a response from the communications department.”

Moreover, no official statement regarding Momika's alleged death was issued by the Norwegian government, as per other media outlets.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/can-rishi-sunak-stage-biggest-electoral-comeback-in-decades-707274">Can Rishi Sunak stage biggest electoral comeback in decades?</a>

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Because of these findings, the fact-checking unit affirmed that the viral news surrounding Salwan Momika's death in Norway lacks substantiation. The claims made by social media users, as per DFRAC, were deemed false and misleading.

(With inputs from agencies)

Social media platforms have been flooded with claims suggesting that a former member of Iraqi militia Salwan Momika, who is known for publicly burning Quran, has been found dead in Norway.

Social media platforms have been flooded with claims suggesting that a former member of Iraqi militia Salwan Momika, who is known for publicly burning Quran, has been found dead in Norway. These claims have sparked widespread attention and various posts are now being circulated across different platforms that Momika is dead. One of the accounts on X social media platform posted, "The lifeless body of Iraqi refugee and Islam critic Salwan Sabah Matti Momika has been found in Norway. Momika was known for organizing demonstrations in Sweden where he publicly burn Koran several times." Yet another one claimed, "Salwan Momika, who burnt the Holy Quran several times in Sweden, was found dead in Norway. He was possibly a frustrated asylum seeker who pretended to be anti-Muslim to get shelter in Europe." Similarly, many other accounts went on making similar posts and several attributed Momika's death to his controversial actions and his ani-Islam stance. Also Read | Entire population of Japan to have same surname by 2531, study suggests However, upon closer examination, these claims which gained much attention are proving to be painting a completely different picture. The Digital Forensics, Research and Analytics Center (DFRAC), a fact-checking website, looked into the matter to ascertain the veracity of the information being propagated on social media platforms. Also Read | Medellin Mayor Federico Gutierrez imposes 6-month prostitution ban after incidents in tourist hotspots Through their investigation, DFRAC found media reports that contradicted claims that are getting viral. Claims v/s truth While citing a report from the Norwegian newspaper website 'Document' which quoted the Police’s Immigration Unit, the fact checking website denied any knowledge of Salwan Momika's demise in Norway. The said report said, “The Police’s Immigration Unit is not aware that Salwan Momika has been found dead in Norway. Thus, the rumours buzzing internationally have been denied. The police’s immigration unit (PU) is not aware that someone with the above name has died in Norway recently, we get a response from the communications department.” Moreover, no official statement regarding Momika's alleged death was issued by the Norwegian government, as per other media outlets. Watch | Can Rishi Sunak stage biggest electoral comeback in decades? × Because of these findings, the fact-checking unit affirmed that the viral news surrounding Salwan Momika's death in Norway lacks substantiation. The claims made by social media users, as per DFRAC, were deemed false and misleading. (With inputs from agencies)

Claim vs Truth? Is Iraqi refugee and Islam critic Salwan Momika really dead in Norway?

Norway's Parliament reportedly has received a bomb threat prompting the police to tighten security around the building. They've blocked off the nearby streets as well as the public audience attending deliberations inside the building has now been asked to leave.

Norway parliament receives bomb threat

The Samudrayaan Mission aims to create a self-propelled manned submersible capable of transporting three humans to a sea depth of 6000 metres in the ocean, along with a set of scientific sensors and tools for deep ocean exploration. It can last 12 hours in normal operation and 96 hours in an emergency.

India's Samudrayaan Deep Ocean mission supported by US, France, Norway

Norway's Minister of Trade and Industry Jan Christian Vestre has underscored the transformative impact of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) signed between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). In an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant&nbsp;Sibal, Vestre stated, "98% of the Indian exports into Norway will have zero customs duties and tariffs." He elaborated that this measure "will make Indian products and services more competitive on the Norwegian market."&nbsp;

Emphasising the broader significance of the agreement, Vestre remarked, "This agreement is about so much more than only reducing the tariffs. It's more about really seizing opportunities together and make sure that we can create sustainable growth together." The TEPA, inked in Delhi among India and EFTA nations Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, also includes provisions to bolster investments.

Vestre affirmed the investment commitments, stating, "We are committed to promote business opportunities to mobilise private investments by creating the ecosystem, the predictable framework conditions needed and of course also the foundation so that companies really can invest and grow and create the new jobs."&nbsp;

Here is the full interview:

WION: How big is this milestone?

Jan Christian Vestre: I would say,&nbsp;Aj ka din atehasik hai&nbsp;(today is a historic day).&nbsp;This is a day for the history books. It's really a breakthrough. It will create more trade, more investments, more jobs, beneficial for both India and for the countries including Norway. So, I'm very happy today and extremely optimistic about the future.&nbsp;

WION: If you can talk about the details, one of the key focuses has been the investment announcement of 100 billion dollars in 15 years. These are commitments. How will these commitments get fulfilled?

Jan Christian Vestre: We are committed to promoting&nbsp;business opportunities to mobilise private investments by creating the ecosystem, the predictable framework conditions needed and of course also the foundation so that companies really can invest and grow and create new jobs.

And, I think that trade agreement is really a breakthrough because now we will reduce and eliminate almost all the tariffs. We will set up an office together and rally a joint effort to promote the business opportunities to get rid of the obstacles, the challenges, to deal with them as they come along to&nbsp;make it easier for the companies to use the opportunities here. We have also agreed to work together on some big global challenges such as climate reductions, CO2 reductions, how to speed up the green transition, how to get more investments into renewable energy, and so on and so on. So, it's really an important framework.

WION: Trade pacts&nbsp;are all about reducing customs duties, making sure market access is given, if you can talk about that...

Jan Christian Vestre: Talking on Norway's behalf we already did reduce the customs duties and tariffs on many Indian products and services already. From now on, 98 per cent&nbsp;of the Indian exports into Norway will have zero customs duties and tariffs, thus making Indian products and services more competitive on the Norwegian market.

We did give better market access for some agricultural products, some fruit, some vegetables, flowers, and some other important issues for Indian exporters. And we have got the same back from India. But this agreement is about so much more than only reducing the tariffs. It's more about really seizing opportunities together and making sure that we can create sustainable growth together.

WION: How will the trade pact help in&nbsp;diversification?

Jan Christian Vestre: It will really help in diversifying our economies, but it will also help to green our economies, to really speed up the green transition in terms of renewable energy, hydrogen batteries, carbon capture and storage, solar energy and so on.

When we talk about some of those value chains, we are really dependent on other countries and I think like minded countries like India and Europe, it's important that we you know, really stay strong together and make stronger ties together, making sure that we do control those value chains and that they will be equal beneficial for all of us and that's what we have reached with this agreement.

WION: Are we looking at the services sector also under this trade pact?&nbsp;

Jan Christian Vestre: Yes, on services. I mean, in Norway, we&nbsp;already have the privilege of welcoming 20,000 highly skilled Indians to Norway. A lot of Norwegian companies wouldn't have reached this far if it was not for the expertise and the competence, and the knowledge represented by the Indian people. And that's also something we encourage, and we invite, of course, skilled workers also to come to Norway, simply because some of the really big challenges the world is facing today is something that we have to team up together on solving. And that's why India and Norway are stronger together.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Norway's Minister of Trade and Industry Jan Christian Vestre has underscored the transformative impact of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) signed between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

Norway's Minister of Trade and Industry Jan Christian Vestre has underscored the transformative impact of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) signed between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). In an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Vestre stated, "98% of the Indian exports into Norway will have zero customs duties and tariffs." He elaborated that this measure "will make Indian products and services more competitive on the Norwegian market." Emphasising the broader significance of the agreement, Vestre remarked, "This agreement is about so much more than only reducing the tariffs. It's more about really seizing opportunities together and make sure that we can create sustainable growth together." The TEPA, inked in Delhi among India and EFTA nations Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, also includes provisions to bolster investments. Vestre affirmed the investment commitments, stating, "We are committed to promote business opportunities to mobilise private investments by creating the ecosystem, the predictable framework conditions needed and of course also the foundation so that companies really can invest and grow and create the new jobs." Here is the full interview: WION: How big is this milestone? Jan Christian Vestre: I would say, Aj ka din atehasik hai (today is a historic day). This is a day for the history books. It's really a breakthrough. It will create more trade, more investments, more jobs, beneficial for both India and for the countries including Norway. So, I'm very happy today and extremely optimistic about the future. WION: If you can talk about the details, one of the key focuses has been the investment announcement of 100 billion dollars in 15 years. These are commitments. How will these commitments get fulfilled? Jan Christian Vestre: We are committed to promoting business opportunities to mobilise private investments by creating the ecosystem, the predictable framework conditions needed and of course also the foundation so that companies really can invest and grow and create new jobs. And, I think that trade agreement is really a breakthrough because now we will reduce and eliminate almost all the tariffs. We will set up an office together and rally a joint effort to promote the business opportunities to get rid of the obstacles, the challenges, to deal with them as they come along to make it easier for the companies to use the opportunities here. We have also agreed to work together on some big global challenges such as climate reductions, CO2 reductions, how to speed up the green transition, how to get more investments into renewable energy, and so on and so on. So, it's really an important framework. WION: Trade pacts are all about reducing customs duties, making sure market access is given, if you can talk about that... Jan Christian Vestre: Talking on Norway's behalf we already did reduce the customs duties and tariffs on many Indian products and services already. From now on, 98 per cent of the Indian exports into Norway will have zero customs duties and tariffs, thus making Indian products and services more competitive on the Norwegian market. We did give better market access for some agricultural products, some fruit, some vegetables, flowers, and some other important issues for Indian exporters. And we have got the same back from India. But this agreement is about so much more than only reducing the tariffs. It's more about really seizing opportunities together and making sure that we can create sustainable growth together. WION: How will the trade pact help in diversification? Jan Christian Vestre: It will really help in diversifying our economies, but it will also help to green our economies, to really speed up the green transition in terms of renewable energy, hydrogen batteries, carbon capture and storage, solar energy and so on. When we talk about some of those value chains, we are really dependent on other countries and I think like minded countries like India and Europe, it's important that we you know, really stay strong together and make stronger ties together, making sure that we do control those value chains and that they will be equal beneficial for all of us and that's what we have reached with this agreement. WION: Are we looking at the services sector also under this trade pact? Jan Christian Vestre: Yes, on services. I mean, in Norway, we already have the privilege of welcoming 20,000 highly skilled Indians to Norway. A lot of Norwegian companies wouldn't have reached this far if it was not for the expertise and the competence, and the knowledge represented by the Indian people. And that's also something we encourage, and we invite, of course, skilled workers also to come to Norway, simply because some of the really big challenges the world is facing today is something that we have to team up together on solving. And that's why India and Norway are stronger together.

Exclusive: Norway grants 98% of Indian exports zero customs duties under TEPA

In a significant boost to India's global trade credentials, New Delhi has signed a deal with the European free trade association. Against the backdrop of the India-EFTA historic deal, Norwegian Minister for Trade and Industry, Jan Christian Vestre spoke to WION. Watch to know more!

Norwegian Minister Jan Christian Vestre hails the historic India-EFTA agreement | WION Exclusive

Norway's Minister of Trade and Industry Jan Christian Vestre has underscored the transformative impact of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) signed between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). In an exclusive interview with our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Vestre stated, "98% of the Indian exports into Norway will have zero customs duties and tariffs." He elaborated that this measure "will make Indian products and services more competitive on the Norwegian market."

Norway Grants 98% of Indian Exports Zero Customs Duties under TEPA: Minister Vestre

Norwegian businesses have welcomed the India EFTA trade pact. The trade pact was signed between India and the 4 European countries -Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland signed the pact under which $100 bn commitment has been made on investment front. The agreement will provide zero tariffs on almost all Norwegian exports to India.

Norwegian businesses welcome India EFTA trade pact

Against the backdrop of the India-EFTA historic deal, Norwegian Minister for Trade and Industry, Jan Christian Vestre and Liechtenstein Minister of Foreign Affairs, Education and Sport, Dominique Hasler spoke to WION. Watch to know more!

Norway & Liechtenstein Ministers speak on India-EFTA agreement

Swedish and Finnish marines engaged in amphibious operations from a US Navy warship in the Norwegian Arctic, as part of preparation for the Nordic Response 2024 exercise, part of NATO’s large-scale exercise Steadfast Defender 2024.

NATO launches mega exercises with Nordic nations Finland, Sweden and Norway

Arctic foxes are small and stout carnivorous animals who are opportunistic feeders, eating practically any animal alive or dead. They rely on population of rodents, especially lemmings, voles, and other small mammals. However, due to climate change the foxes' rodent prey have become scarce. Fearing the extinction of these foxes due to hunger norway is now breeding them.

Critically endangered Arctic Foxes breed in Norway

Norway's Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik said on Thursday (Feb 22) that his country shares a very strong relationship with India across sectors.

Norway's Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik said on Thursday (Feb 22) that his country shares a very strong relationship with India across sectors. Speaking to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Deputy Foreign Minister Kravik said that Norway and India have had lots of interesting conversations. Both countries are trying to move forward on the basis of international law and mutual conversations about collaborating, he added. Here are the excerpts: WION: What kind of relationship do you foresee between India and Norway? Kravik: We have a very strong relationship with India across many, many items. So we have spoken about, you know, international law, we've spoken about multilateralism, how we cooperate for the purposes of reforming the current multilateral system, how we approach and tried to resolve some of the current crisis that we're seeing on the Gaza Strip, in Ukraine, in the Red Sea and so forth. So we've had lots of interesting conversations and trying to move forward on the basis of international law and on the basis of mutual conversations about collaborating, to find ways out of some of the current impasses that we're seeing. Also read | Exclusive: Estonia's foreign minister talks drones, cybersecurity, and global trade in interview with WION WION: This year, Norway is going to host the India Nordic Summit, I believe. Have you extended the invite, is some conversation happening? Kravik: Of course, we're looking very much forward to hosting the prime minister from India but of course, there's now an election coming up in India. So we're very respectful about that process as that needs to go forward. But once that process has been completed, the invitations will go out. And we're looking forward to hosting the prime minister in Oslo. Also watch | Norway's Deputy FM Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik speaks to WION on India-Nordic relationship × WION: Sir, when it comes to global conflicts, global crises, whether it's the Red Sea crisis, the Israel-Gaza or Ukraine...what kind of conversations you've had with your Indian counterpart? Kravik: So we've had several conversations. We've had some macro conversations in terms of what should be our yardstick when approaching these issues and I think we agree that their international law needs to be our yardstick. We need to respect the UN Charter, we need to respect...the legal rules that apply between countries and between states and that is good, it needs to give guidance for all of us in terms of what we can do and what we can't do. We have been very clear, and I think that message has also resonated with our Indian counterparts [that] what Russia did was a violation of international law and that's something that needs to be addressed. And we're very committed to seeing that go forward that...there needs to be a solution within the parameters of international law. And we've been trying to be very principled also on some of these other issues that we've been discussing, or alluded to the issue of the Gaza conflict or the Gaza crisis, again, internationalised our yardstick. And we've been saying from the start that there needs to be a two-state solution... there needs to be so that's sort of the end state we think, but in the interim, we need to have a ceasefire. We need to have humanitarian goods and services delivered. That's something that we're trying to facilitate. We've been increasing our humanitarian efforts. Towards the Gaza Strip, of course, our contributions to the agencies that are directly involved, notably, you know, this UN agency is something that we have prioritised and I think that's also something that is resonating with our Indian counterparts. And then finally, on the issue of the Red Sea, again, international law is our yardstick and what the Houthis have done in terms of firing at civilian vessels that have no relation to the conflict in the Gaza Strip is just something that we can't accept, we can't tolerate. We've been we're part of the coalition of states that are working out of the rubric regarding prosperity. India has also been very, very clear about...this, ...we're very like-minded and our positions are aligned.

Exclusive: Norway shares very strong relationship with India across areas, says deputy FM

Norway's Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik speaks to WION on India-Nordic relationship. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal at the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, Norway's Deputy Foreign Minister spoke about India-Nordic relationship, India-Nordic summit and more.

Norway's Deputy FM Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik speaks to WION on India-Nordic relationship

India is on the brink of finalising a groundbreaking deal with a select group of European nations. Bloomberg reports suggest that Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein—members of the European free trade association— are gearing up to invest $100 billion in india over the next 15 years.

European nations to invest $100 bn in India

India is on the brink of finalising a trade agreement that could potentially unleash a wave of investment worth $100 billion over 15 years from a select group of European nations. <o:p></o:p>

A Bloomberg report cited sources familiar with the negotiations who revealed that the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, have decided to invest in India as part of a trade pact currently in the advanced stages of discussion.<o:p></o:p>

Although the specific terms are yet to be disclosed, the foundational framework of the deal has been established, with deliberations now focusing on the precise investment amount.<o:p></o:p>

While India aims for a legally binding commitment, European officials suggest the figure may be presented as a target without legal obligation. <o:p></o:p>

If finalised, this agreement would mark a historic milestone as India secures an unprecedented investment commitment within a free trade agreement.<o:p></o:p>

Switzerland's Economy Minister Guy Parmelin hinted at the progress made, indicating that the deal's outline has been agreed upon. <o:p></o:p>

However, official details are pending legal clarifications, with efforts underway to expedite the signing process before India's anticipated elections slated for April. <o:p></o:p>

Despite attempts to reach out to India's commerce ministry, there has been no immediate response regarding the matter. <o:p></o:p>

Acknowledging the ongoing negotiations, the Swiss economy ministry emphasised that the agreement's text is yet to be finalised, withholding specific details at this juncture.<o:p></o:p>

Nevertheless, significant consensus has been reached on key areas such as patent protection and innovative investment promotion measures.<o:p></o:p>

Norway's government opted not to comment on the deal's specifics, maintaining discretion amidst the ongoing discussions. <o:p></o:p>

As Switzerland emerges as India's foremost trading partner within the EFTA bloc, with bilateral trade reaching $17.14 billion in the 2022-23 fiscal year, this prospective agreement holds immense significance for both parties.<o:p></o:p>

For the EFTA nations, the agreement, after 16 years in the making, promises expanded opportunities to export processed foods, electrical machinery, and engineering products to India, potentially reaching a market of 1.4 billion people. <o:p></o:p>

Furthermore, the EFTA bloc's pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors are poised to benefit significantly from this deal.<o:p></o:p>

The United Arab Emirates is also contemplating a substantial investment of up to $50 billion in India, further underlining the country's attractiveness to foreign investors. <o:p></o:p>

The proposed investment from EFTA countries is expected to primarily stem from private enterprises and state-backed entities, targeting existing and upcoming manufacturing ventures. <o:p></o:p>

Sources familiar with the discussions anticipate over 1 million job opportunities to be generated in India as a result of this investment influx.<o:p></o:p>

In addition to facilitating investment, the agreement aims to streamline the movement of Indian professionals to the EFTA bloc and enhance market access for select agricultural products. <o:p></o:p>

Despite Switzerland's traditional stance of protecting its agricultural sector, negotiations suggest a willingness to consider easier market access for Indian rice due to Switzerland's nominal domestic production.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Bloomberg)<o:p></o:p>

India is on the brink of finalising a trade agreement that could potentially unleash a wave of investment worth $100 billion over 15 years from a select group of European nations.

India is on the brink of finalising a trade agreement that could potentially unleash a wave of investment worth $100 billion over 15 years from a select group of European nations. A Bloomberg report cited sources familiar with the negotiations who revealed that the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, have decided to invest in India as part of a trade pact currently in the advanced stages of discussion. Although the specific terms are yet to be disclosed, the foundational framework of the deal has been established, with deliberations now focusing on the precise investment amount. While India aims for a legally binding commitment, European officials suggest the figure may be presented as a target without legal obligation. If finalised, this agreement would mark a historic milestone as India secures an unprecedented investment commitment within a free trade agreement. Switzerland's Economy Minister Guy Parmelin hinted at the progress made, indicating that the deal's outline has been agreed upon. However, official details are pending legal clarifications, with efforts underway to expedite the signing process before India's anticipated elections slated for April. Despite attempts to reach out to India's commerce ministry, there has been no immediate response regarding the matter. Acknowledging the ongoing negotiations, the Swiss economy ministry emphasised that the agreement's text is yet to be finalised, withholding specific details at this juncture. Nevertheless, significant consensus has been reached on key areas such as patent protection and innovative investment promotion measures. Norway's government opted not to comment on the deal's specifics, maintaining discretion amidst the ongoing discussions. As Switzerland emerges as India's foremost trading partner within the EFTA bloc, with bilateral trade reaching $17.14 billion in the 2022-23 fiscal year, this prospective agreement holds immense significance for both parties. For the EFTA nations, the agreement, after 16 years in the making, promises expanded opportunities to export processed foods, electrical machinery, and engineering products to India, potentially reaching a market of 1.4 billion people. Furthermore, the EFTA bloc's pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors are poised to benefit significantly from this deal. The United Arab Emirates is also contemplating a substantial investment of up to $50 billion in India, further underlining the country's attractiveness to foreign investors. The proposed investment from EFTA countries is expected to primarily stem from private enterprises and state-backed entities, targeting existing and upcoming manufacturing ventures. Sources familiar with the discussions anticipate over 1 million job opportunities to be generated in India as a result of this investment influx. In addition to facilitating investment, the agreement aims to streamline the movement of Indian professionals to the EFTA bloc and enhance market access for select agricultural products. Despite Switzerland's traditional stance of protecting its agricultural sector, negotiations suggest a willingness to consider easier market access for Indian rice due to Switzerland's nominal domestic production. (With inputs from Bloomberg)

India nears landmark $100 bn investment pact with Switzerland, Norway

Coastal areas of Central and Northern Norway are grappling with the aftermath of the most powerful storm in three decades, named ‘Ingunn.' Severe disruptions have been reported in power supply, transportation links, and other critical infrastructure.

Storm Ingunn swept up record winds through Norway

A Norwegian MP Himanshu Gulati , invited for Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya has said that he is "deeply honoured" to be invited for event on 22nd January. The Indian origin MP, speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Oslo, said, "I just feel a sense of history being made with this great event, which is bringing people together from all over the world and it's truly a moment of celebration for all of us". He highlighted that many have been requesting him to bring back prasad from the Ram Temple. He said, "Ayodhya and the Ram Mandir are a great example of how an issue, that was a dispute, that could be filled with tension has been settled in a very democratic and peaceful way. That's a model for the whole world to learn from." The 35 year old Indian origin Hindu MP was conferred with Pravasi Bharatiya Samman by Indian President in 2019.

Norwegian MP Gulati invited to Ram Temple Consecration, calls it a historic moment | WION Exclusive

Bringing you a gripping story that takes us to the European Nation of Norway. In a bizarre turn of events, Norwegian Neo-Nazi extremist Anders Behring Breivik, responsible for the horrific 2011 bombing and shooting rampage that claimed 77 lives, is making headlines again. But this time, it's not for his past crimes.

Breivik complains of 'inhumane' prison conditions in Norway prison

In a momentous decision, Norway's parliament, the Storting has given its nod to a government initiative allowing Arctic seabed mineral exploration.&nbsp;

This sets the course for mining exploration into parts of its seabed, including a sprawling 280,000-square-kilometre expanse, predominantly located in the icy depths of the Arctic. Despite opposition, the plan received 80 affirmative votes and only 20 dissenting voices.

<h2>Norway takes a step towards becoming a significant mineral producer</h2>

With this, Norway, a leader in oil and gas production in Western Europe, ventures into the uncharted realms of ocean floor mining — which can potentially transform it into a formidable mineral producer, reports AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clearly-unacceptable-india-condemns-israel-hamas-wars-rising-civilian-death-toll-calls-for-de-escalation-678511">'Clearly unacceptable': India condemns Israel-Hamas war's rising civilian death toll, calls for de-escalation</a>

The decision follows a comprehensive report unveiled by the Norwegian Offshore Directorate, which in 2023, identified resources nestled beneath the ocean's surface—riches encompassing minerals such as copper, zinc, and cobalt.

Championed by a Labour-led coalition minority government, in a bid to lead the green transition, this ambitious proposal advocates the exploration of the Arctic seabed.&nbsp;

In an impassioned plea, policymakers underscored the importance of these minerals in developing fuel cells, solar panels, electric cars, and mobile technology.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melania-trumps-mother-amalija-knavs-passes-away-after-long-illness-678470">Melania Trump's mother Amalija Knavs passes away after long illness</a>

<h2>Dissenting voices</h2>

Yet, this stride into the deep sea has provoked disquiet among environmentalists and scientists who warn that the venture threatens marine ecosystems. They caution that disruptive noise may also affect the ocean's carbon absorption capacity and that the tranquillity of marine life will be severely affected.

Countries like France and the UK have sounded the clarion call for a moratorium on deep-sea mining. In response to the concerns, the Norwegian plan asserts that each step will be taken keeping in mind "environmental considerations." However, organisations like Norway's Institute of Marine Research and the Norwegian Polar Institute have pointed out that there exists a lack of essential knowledge to assess the environmental impact of deep sea mining.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a momentous decision, Norway's parliament, the Storting has given its nod to a government initiative allowing Arctic seabed mineral exploration. This sets the course for mining exploration into parts of its seabed, including a sprawling 280,000-square-kilometre expanse, predominantly located in the icy depths of the Arctic.

In a momentous decision, Norway's parliament, the Storting has given its nod to a government initiative allowing Arctic seabed mineral exploration. This sets the course for mining exploration into parts of its seabed, including a sprawling 280,000-square-kilometre expanse, predominantly located in the icy depths of the Arctic. Despite opposition, the plan received 80 affirmative votes and only 20 dissenting voices. Norway takes a step towards becoming a significant mineral producer With this, Norway, a leader in oil and gas production in Western Europe, ventures into the uncharted realms of ocean floor mining — which can potentially transform it into a formidable mineral producer, reports AFP. Also read | 'Clearly unacceptable': India condemns Israel-Hamas war's rising civilian death toll, calls for de-escalation The decision follows a comprehensive report unveiled by the Norwegian Offshore Directorate, which in 2023, identified resources nestled beneath the ocean's surface—riches encompassing minerals such as copper, zinc, and cobalt. Championed by a Labour-led coalition minority government, in a bid to lead the green transition, this ambitious proposal advocates the exploration of the Arctic seabed. In an impassioned plea, policymakers underscored the importance of these minerals in developing fuel cells, solar panels, electric cars, and mobile technology. Also read | Melania Trump's mother Amalija Knavs passes away after long illness Dissenting voices Yet, this stride into the deep sea has provoked disquiet among environmentalists and scientists who warn that the venture threatens marine ecosystems. They caution that disruptive noise may also affect the ocean's carbon absorption capacity and that the tranquillity of marine life will be severely affected. Countries like France and the UK have sounded the clarion call for a moratorium on deep-sea mining. In response to the concerns, the Norwegian plan asserts that each step will be taken keeping in mind "environmental considerations." However, organisations like Norway's Institute of Marine Research and the Norwegian Polar Institute have pointed out that there exists a lack of essential knowledge to assess the environmental impact of deep sea mining. (With inputs from agencies)

Norway’s Parliament approves deep-sea mineral exploration, ignites environmental debate

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