Finland Times

 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (C) cuts a ribbon as Finnish Prime Minister Juha Sipilä (R) and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadanvis look on during the opening of the 'Make in India Week' in Mumbai on February 13, 2016. Photo AFP-Lehtikuva.

Prime Minister Juha Sipilä on Saturday met his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi in Mumbai and discussed various bilateral issues, said an official press release.

 

The meeting was focused on bilateral relations India and economic cooperation. 

 

Opportunities for cooperation exist in, for instance, solar energy and other renewable energy sources, sustainable development of cities, circular economy, education, and information technology. 

 

The prime ministers also discussed Finnish companies’ opportunities of concrete business activities in India.

 

“We noted that the economic relations between our countries offer many opportunities that can benefit both Finnish and Indian companies. The government of India has clearly recognised the possibilities and challenges that the country has and is actively seeking international partners to tackle them,” Sipilä said.

 

The agenda of the official discussions also included the relations between the EU and India, the reform of the UN Security Council, regional questions in Asia, and Russia and Ukraine. 

 

After the meeting, Finland and India issued a joint statement on the key topics of the prime minister’s visit.  Sipilä extended an invitation to Modi to visit Finland.

 

Sipilä was accompanied by a business delegation representing 17 Finnish companies and organisations. 

 

During the visit, Sipilä and his business delegation also met the chief ministers of the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra and top leadership of large Indian companies. 

 

He will also meet, among others, the finance minister of India and the minister of commerce and industry during his stay in India.

 

The business delegation includes representatives of energy and environmental technology, information technology, healthcare and welfare services, and education. 

 

The prime minister’s visit will continue till Sunday.