Shimla: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday expressed Himachal Pradesh's keen interest in collaborating with Norway on advanced waste management technologies and sustainable development initiatives.
Meeting with Norwegian Envoy
During a meeting with Norway's Ambassador to India, May-Elin Stener, in Shimla, both sides discussed opportunities for cooperation in construction and demolition waste processing, recycling, and other environmentally sustainable practices. Sukhu stated that the state aims to benefit from Norwegian expertise, best practices, and innovative technologies in waste management.
Key Areas of Collaboration
The discussions also focused on collaboration in areas such as circular economy and resource recovery, sustainable tourism, climate-resilient urban development, renewable energy, green transition, digital governance, and smart city initiatives. Inviting Norwegian companies to invest in Himachal Pradesh, Sukhu highlighted the potential in tourism, green energy, and geothermal sectors.
Shared Commitment to Environment
He emphasized that both Himachal Pradesh and Norway share a common commitment to environmental conservation while pursuing sustainable development. The chief minister invited Norwegian institutions, experts, and technology providers to work with the state in developing innovative and scalable solutions for mountain regions.
State's Green Initiatives
Sukhu also highlighted the government's efforts to promote electric vehicles, expand green cover from 29.5% to 32%, and encourage chemical-free natural farming through minimum support prices for key agricultural products. Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh and other dignitaries were also present during the meeting.
