Modi: India, Finland support dialog, diplomacy to end conflicts

Modi: India, Finland support dialog, diplomacy to end conflicts

India and Finland have reaffirmed their commitment to fostering dialogue and diplomacy as tools for resolving global conflicts, emphasizing shared democratic values during recent high-level engagements. During Finnish President Alexander Stubb's state visit to India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the importance of peaceful cooperation, aligning with India's longstanding foreign policy stance of prioritizing dialogue over confrontation. The discussions, which included External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, highlighted the two nations' mutual interest in strengthening bilateral ties across political, economic, and technological domains.

Economic collaboration remains a cornerstone of the relationship, with trade between the two countries reaching approximately EUR 1.5–2 billion annually, split evenly between goods and services. Finland exports machinery, telecommunications equipment, and digital solutions to India, while India supplies pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and textiles to Finland. Over 30–40 Finnish companies, including major listed firms and family-owned businesses, maintain a permanent presence in India, while Indian IT firms and experts contribute significantly to Finland's technology sector.

Recent initiatives have expanded cooperation in vocational training, cybersecurity, space, and environmental sustainability, reflecting both nations' strategic priorities. Finland's role as a bridge between India and the European Union further strengthens this partnership, particularly in multilateral forums and innovation-driven sectors. As Stubb prepares to address the Raisina Dialogue 2026, the visit underscores growing momentum for deepening economic and diplomatic ties amid global uncertainties.