Different opinions on the Russia-Ukraine war, but shared thinking regarding peace.
A clear example in the Russia-Ukraine war, but also given priority to India. The Icelandic PM articulated without basing about Russia-Ukraine war, she said that, according to her, Ukraine should be distressed. However, she also agreed that the views of India and other Nordic countries on the situation are not the same. She stated that different countries have their own foreign policies and sometimes it is normal to have a different opinion on an important international issue. But there is one thing where everyone gets united, and that is the need for peace.
According to her, the longer the war continues, the higher the impact would be for all countries. This fighting is not limited to a few countries, but it also affects the rest of the world. Over the past years, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has impacted many things, from the economy to global politics, from food prices to fuel prices. Many countries became victims of the situation. India has adopted a balanced approach in this whole situation and continuously talked about the solution. At the very same time, many countries have taken a tougher stance against Russia.
The Icelandic PM acknowledged that despite the distance, there should be no distance in the relationship between India and the Nordic countries. She said that the relationship between countries is strengthened by cooperation and is not decided on just one issue. The eye on tourism, efforts to bring Indian films to Iceland, apart from the political distance, the PM of Iceland also showed interest in cultural relationships with India.
Attempting to attract Indian films to Iceland, focusing on tourism and business
During the conversation, the Icelandic Prime Minister also mentioned the Indian film industry and said that she wants Indian filmmakers and production houses to shoot more in Iceland. He believes that Iceland’s natural beauty, glaciers, mountains and open views can make great locations for Indian films.
She said that films not only increase entertainment but also benefit tourism and economic activities. In the last few years, many Indian films and songs have been shot in different countries of Europe, due to which the number of Indian tourists there has also increased.
The Prime Minister of Iceland believes that if the Indian film industry shoots more there, it will also strengthen the cultural ties between the two countries.
Apart from this, she also emphasized on trade and investment. The possibilities of cooperation between India and Iceland, especially in the field of renewable energy, were described as important. Iceland is known globally for its use of clean energy and it is believed that its experience in this area could be useful for India.
Why is the PM, one of the world’s young leaders at 38, focused on India?
The Prime Minister of Iceland, who is among the world’s leading young leaders at the age of just 38, described India as a rapidly emerging global power. She acknowledged that India’s economy, technological development and international influence are continuously growing.
She said that India is not only a big market but is also becoming an important country influencing global decisions in the future. In such a situation, it is important for the Nordic countries to build a strong partnership with India.
She also said that today the world is in a phase where there is a need to work together on issues like climate change, energy security and economic stability. Cooperation between India and the Nordic countries in these areas can become stronger in the future.
While views on the Russia-Ukraine war may differ, the tone of the talks shows that both sides want to view the relationship from a broader perspective. This is why, despite political differences, there is a clear desire to move forward on issues like trade, technology, energy and cultural cooperation.
