Mahima Duggal

In 2026, trade negotiations with the US and EU will need to be balanced by India with the demands of its BRICS presidency amid a shifting global order. Complex ties with China and the US, state elections, and tensions with the South Asian country’s diverse neighbours will test the ruling government.

This paper presents a culmination of policy papers and features diverse scholarly perspectives from leading academics and experts. India’s ties with the Nordics and the EU hold great potential but face several challenges. Sustained political will and regular policy exchanges are essential to overcoming divergences and strengthening cooperation.

Amid a fractured global political landscape, India and the Nordics must reverse years of strategic neglect of each other’s potential, and chart a new course of constructive, effective, pragmatic, and values-based cooperation.

This paper argues that the strategic gains of a strong India-Sweden relationship outshine persisting challenges. Both partners should focus on five key areas of convergence: innovation and technology, green energy, sustainable development, defence trade and security, and trade and investment.