PM Modi awarded Royal Norwegian Order of Merit Grand Cross, his 32nd international award during Oslo visit | Today’s news
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit, Norway’s highest civilian award, during his visit to Oslo on Monday in recognition of his leadership and his role in strengthening India-Norway relations.
The honor was bestowed by King Harald V of Norway and marks the 32nd international award received by a prime minister.
“I am honored to receive the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit. This award is dedicated to the people of India and is a tribute to the enduring friendship between India and Norway. It reflects our shared commitment to global progress,” PM Modi wrote on X.
PM Modi mentioned that the recognition symbolizes the strong bonds of friendship and mutual goodwill shared by the people of India and Norway.
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The Grand Cross is the highest decoration of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit and is awarded to individuals for outstanding efforts in advancing Norway’s interests and improving its global relations.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Norway earlier on Monday for a two-day visit after completing his trip to Sweden. This is Prime Minister Modi’s first visit to Norway and the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 43 years; the last was former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1983.
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Agreement on “Green Strategic Partnership” between India and Norway
Prime Minister Modi and his Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Støre agreed on Monday to form a “green strategic partnership” aimed at promoting clean energy, climate cooperation and sustainable development, according to AFP.
India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, faced significant supply disruptions following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz during the Middle East conflict. Almost half of the country’s oil imports usually go through an important shipping route.
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In response to rising fuel prices, India has cut fuel taxes and announced plans to speed up approvals for wind power projects and battery-based energy storage systems. Despite these efforts, coal continues to account for about 73% of the country’s electricity generation.
Norway, Europe’s largest oil and gas producer outside of Russia, produces almost all of its electricity from renewable sources, primarily hydropower.
In a statement to the press, PM Modi said the new partnership was “beneficial for the entire world”.
Norwegian Prime Minister Støre told NRK television that India has “a lot to contribute” to the initiative.
“The country is currently making significant progress in renewable energy, solar, wind and energy storage technologies,” he added.
The two countries also signed agreements to strengthen cooperation in the field of healthcare and digital technologies.
Their economic ties have expanded since the October 2025 free trade agreement between India and the member countries of the European Free Trade Association – Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
Prime Minister Modi said, “Whether in Ukraine or in West Asia, many parts of the world are witnessing conflict. In such a situation, India and Europe are entering a new golden era in their relations.”
Swedish “Royal Order of the North Star, Commander’s Grand Cross” awarded to PM Modi
The previous day, Prime Minister Modi received the Swedish “Royal Order of the North Star”, Grand Cross Commander, in honor of his significant role in deepening bilateral cooperation and his leadership. The decoration is Sweden’s highest award given to foreign heads of government.
He is currently on a five-country tour from May 15-20, and will head to Italy for the final leg of his visit.
(With input from agencies)
