India-Norway Business Cooperation Seminar

Distinguished guests, Ministers, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Dear friends.

The Crown Princess and I are pleased to be here in New Delhi today. And I am happy to talk to you on the occasion of this seminar entitled “India – Norway Business Cooperation”.

Today the Taj Mahal Hotel in New Delhi is the scene for discussion, exchange of information, exploration of opportunities and the establishment of new networks between Indian and Norwegian businessmen and women. The topic is business cooperation between our two countries. The focus is on how we cooperate today and more importantly; what is the potential for further cooperation in the future. These are important questions that will contribute to shaping the future bilateral relationship between India and Norway.

There is no doubt that India’s political and economic weight is increasing both locally, regionally and globally. India’s economic growth over the past ten years has been impressive. And all evidence suggests that this growth is continuing well into the future. This has impact on the world economy. For Norwegian companies, and companies all over the world, India is quickly becoming a market that represents enormous opportunities and promise.

We have all reasons to be optimistic about the future. The relations between India and Norway are strong. As the minister just said, trade is increasing steadily! While the use of Norwegian machinery and ships are more and more prevalent in India; Indian textiles, leather products and fruits have established strongholds in Norwegian households. But the story doesn’t stop there. The joint efforts here today of FICCI, CII, Assocham, Innovation Norway and the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise only strengthens my impression that the potential for future cooperation is great.

I am happy to note that the parallel sessions following this plenary will cover a wide range of the sectors, including tourism, the marine sector, oil and energy and trade in services. These are all sectors of importance in the bilateral economic relations between our two countries. And these are some of the sectors where the prospects for future cooperation seem brightest!

Let me round off by saying that the scene is set for fruitful and constructive dialogue and discussion. I believe this is the time and place to get together and work towards the best possible solutions for our common future.

It remains for me to wish you a great seminar.

Thank you for your time!