Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 22 May: In a landmark initiative strengthening India’s economic and cultural engagement with Europe, a 32-member high level delegation led by the Indo Icelandic Business Association (IIBA) successfully concluded a multi nation visit to the four member states of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA): Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
This significant outreach comes at a pivotal time, following the historic India EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), which is set to unlock vast opportunities in trade, investment, innovation and technology collaboration.
Iceland: A Grand Beginning amid Nordic Excellence
The delegation’s journey began in Reykjavik, where it received a warm welcome from the Embassy of India in Iceland under the leadership of Ambassador H E R Ravindra. In collaboration with the Icelandic India Trade Council, the Embassy hosted the prestigious India Icelandic Business Conclave.
The conclave was inaugurated by the President of Iceland, Halla Tómasdóttir, as Chief Guest, alongside the Minister of Innovation, Culture and Education, Logi Einarsson. The event witnessed the participation of leading industry stakeholders and policymakers from both nations.
Key sectors such as renewable energy, health care, fisheries, sustainable tourism, fintech, Arctic research, gender sensitivity, IT, advertising, films, media, jewellery, fashion, hardware, agritech, defence, security services, legal and digital innovation were extensively discussed. Iceland’s global leadership in clean energy and sustainability presented compelling collaboration avenues for Indian enterprises, particularly in Uttarakhand’s own renewable and eco-tourism ambitions.
Several Letters of Intent (LoIs) and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, signalling intent to harness the full potential of TEPA. Delegation members actively engaged in presentations, B2B meetings and knowledge exchange sessions.
The Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Iceland, led by Permanent Secretary Martin Eyjólfsson, hosted a grand reception. In a unique cultural exchange, the festival of Holi was celebrated, symbolising the vibrant blending of Indian and Icelandic traditions. The Indian Embassy, with Deputy Chief of Mission Anisha Tomar, also hosted a warm gathering for the delegation.
Norway: Strengthening Strategic and Business Ties
The delegation’s next stop was Oslo, Norway.
The Embassy of India in Norway, led by Ambassador Gloria Gangte, hosted the India Norway Business Forum, which saw strong participation from industry leaders across sectors such as maritime technology, clean energy, aquaculture and digital innovation.
Norway’s expertise in offshore energy, green shipping and sustainability aligns closely with India’s developmental priorities. The forum facilitated meaningful exchanges, partnerships and investment dialogues, followed by a grand reception and dinner.
A notable highlight was the interaction with Member of Parliament Himanshu Gulati, who engaged with the delegation on emerging opportunities in trade, policy and diaspora collaboration.
Further strengthening ties, an MoU was signed with INOR Consultancy to deepen bilateral cooperation in business and cultural exchange. The Indian diaspora in Norway also hosted a special reception, adding a personal and emotional dimension to the visit. It is pertinent to note that there is a strong Uttarakhand community that has association with restaurant owners and leading Chefs.
Switzerland: Innovation, Precision and Financial Excellence
In Switzerland, the delegation explored one of the world’s most advanced economies, globally recognised for its leadership in banking, pharmaceuticals, precision engineering and innovation.
Engagements focused on fintech collaborations, advanced manufacturing, life sciences and skill development.
The delegation held productive meetings with business chambers and industry leaders, identifying pathways for joint ventures, particularly in sustainable finance, healthcare innovation and high value manufacturing.
Liechtenstein: Small Nation, Big Opportunities
The visit to Liechtenstein, though brief, proved equally impactful. Known for its strong financial sector and highly specialised manufacturing base, the principality offered unique insights into niche industries such as precision tools, dental technology and advanced materials.
Discussions centred on fostering SME collaborations, innovation driven partnerships and leveraging Liechtenstein’s investor-friendly ecosystem. The delegation appreciated the country’s efficiency, governance model and openness to international business.
A Collective Effort Driving Global Impact
The success of the EFTA mission was not merely institutional but deeply collaborative. Each member of the IIBA delegation contributed actively through sectoral expertise, business presentations and continuous engagement ensuring tangible outcomes across all four countries.
A Promising Road Ahead
This landmark visit underscores the growing synergy between India and EFTA nations under the TEPA framework. For regions like Uttarakhand, known for its natural resources, tourism potential and emerging industries, such international collaborations offer a gateway to global markets, technology infusion and sustainable growth.
Uttarakhand delegates open new avenues
The state saw the largest representation with Kiran Todaria exploring the avenues in geo thermal collaboration with huge potential in the state. Maj Gorky Chandola with keen interest in rural sector specially education and tourism, held discussions to futher the ties. Wg Cdr Anupama Joshi (Retd), represented Samunnati Foundation and its work on agri-value chain and Preeti Dewan in art and bespoke jewellery and fashion.
The team was led by the Indo Icelandic Association President Prasoon Dewan, who signed MOUs to further ties with Icelandic countries.
