Military action alone can't bring peace: PM Modi in Norway

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday called for a resolution of the ongoing conflict in West Asia and the Ukraine war through dialogue and diplomacy, asserting that military action alone cannot achieve lasting peace.

"India and Norway, both, believe in a rules-based order, dialogue, and diplomacy," said Modi. "We agree that no issue can be resolved through military conflict alone. 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, addressing a joint press meet after wide-ranging talks with Norwegian PM Jonas Gahr Store on the eve of the third edition of the India-Nordic Summit in Oslo. "We also agree on this point that reforming global institutions is essential for addressing the growing global challenges," Modi said, adding, "And eradicating terrorism in every form from its roots is our shared commitment."



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During their bilateral talks, Modi and Store agreed to elevate ties to a Green Strategic Partnership and reviewed the full spectrum of India-Norway relations, covering trade and investments, and a follow up on the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement. Both leaders agreed that there is huge potential for boosting economic and commercial partnership, an official said.

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Meanwhile, Modi was conferred with Norway's highest civilian honour, the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit. This is Modi's 32nd international honour.