India: The new superpower

India’s growing role in the Arctic is reshaping global dynamics. How will this influence the region and the world?

As India continues to rise on the global stage, its role in the Arctic is becoming increasingly relevant. This event explored India's ambitions in the region, focusing on security, international cooperation, and the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. With contributions from prominent researchers, diplomats, and innovators, the discussion shed light on how India is positioning itself as a new player in Arctic affairs.

Programme:

14:00 - 14:10: Welcome: Introduction to the topic India in the Arctic

• Andreas Østhagen, senior researcher at Fridtjof Nansen Institute

14:10 - 14:30: India's Global Role  
India's growing influence in international politics and economy  

• Acquino Vimal, India's Ambassador to Norway
• Sulagna Chattopadhyay, President SaGAA, Secretary General LIGHTS, and Editor in Chief at Geography and You.

14:30 - 15:00: Security and Cooperation in the Arctic  
Panel discussion: The Arctic as a geopolitical arena. India's superpower ambitions  

Speakers:  

• Sulagna Chattopadhyay, SaGAA/Geography and You
• Marc Lanteigne, Professor in Political Science at UiT, The Arctic University of Norway 
• Erdem Lamazhapov, PhD Research Fellow at Fridtjof Nansen Institute
• Moderator: Andreas Østhagen, Fridtjof Nansen Institute

15:00 - 16:00: Research and Innovation: Investments in the Arctic  

Speakers:  

• Merethe Sandberg, The Research Council of Norway (India lead) 
• Rina Sunder, DMI
• Himanshu Gulati, Norwegian Parliament member for the Progress Party
• Moderator: Mattias Thronsen, Managing Director, Oslo Studio Hub

16:00 - 16:10: Summing up - Future and Strategic Directions for Nordic-India Cooperation in the Arctic  

16:10 - 16:30: Networking and Mingling  
Informal conversations and networking