India-Norway brace up union over blue economy; 'Managing resources is concern for us', says Dr Harsh Vardhan
Total Views |
New Delhi, February 19: Commencing new collaboration on Integrated Ocean Management and Research, India and Norway together today opened the India-Norway Task Force on blue economy for sustainable development. "The two governments signed a Letter of Intent confirming that they will develop a new framework. As a part of the joint initiatives, several projects on combating marine litter are already being implemented", Dr Harsh Vardhan said while addressing the delegates.
“Managing the resources in the oceans in a sustainable manner is a matter of mutual interest and concern for both countries. The fact that Norway and India are commencing a new initiative is a signal that the cooperation between the two countries is growing even stronger, making the Indo-Norwegian Ocean Cooperation a key pillar in the bilateral relationship", he added at the signing ceremony.
India Norway Task Force on Blue Economy opened by Hon'ble Minister Harshwardhan (@drharshvardhan) & his Norwegian counter part today. EAC-PM was represented by Mr. Ratan P Watal, Member Secretary & Miss Sumita Misra (@sumitamisra), Senior Adviser, EAC to PM. pic.twitter.com/B5xAE3fEi1
— EAC-PM (@EACtoPM) February 18, 2020
In addition, Norway highlighted that the Norway-India cooperation in the field of oceans is based on our shared interest in the blue economy and the sustainable use of marine resources, as well as a desire to advance scientific knowledge about our oceans. "Norway and India are engaging on ways to ensure integrated ocean management at the government level. At the same time, Norwegian companies and private institutions are increasingly seeking opportunities with Indian counterparts, making India an even more significant partner for Norway", the Minister noted.
The India-Norway Task Force on Blue Economy for Sustainable Development was launched jointly by PM Modi, and the Norwegian PM Erna Solberg, during her visit to India in January 2019. The purpose of the task force is to develop and follow up joint initiatives between the two countries. The strength and value added of the India-Norway Joint Task Force on Blue Economy is its ability to mobilise relevant stakeholders from both Norway and India at the highest level, and ensure continued commitment and progress across ministries and agencies.