NEW DELHI, June 19 (IANS) — As Prime Minister Narendra Modi completed a 12-year tenure, Erik Solheim, a Norwegian diplomat and former Minister of Climate and Environment for Norway, stated that the period has been remarkable. According to Solheim, India's standing in the world has increased significantly.
Solheim told IANS on the sidelines of the second Foundation Day of the Chintan Research Foundation: "I think it has been a remarkable period during which India's standing in the world has increased a lot." He added that India is now much more at the center stage of global events.
The diplomat described the era as one characterized by rapid economic growth and green leadership. Solheim said, "The Prime Minister is leading an India that is going green at a very rapid pace..."
Regarding India's future geopolitical role, Solheim stated: "There is no future of the planet where India will not play a much more important role." He noted that the Indian economy is growing and is expected to quadruple by 2050. According to him, as the world's most populous nation with a rich culture and civilisational legacy, India will play a "much, much bigger role in global affairs than it did in the 20th century."
Solheim emphasized that India can play roles in many different ways because he considers it a peaceful nation. He stated: "The peace is in the DNA..." He highlighted what he described as a lesson for other nations to replicate regarding 'Operation Sindoor.' According to Solheim, India has not been at war with any nation except Pakistan for the last several decades.
He also noted that India is a green leader and makes an important contribution. On the achievements of the Chintan Research Foundation, Solheim said: "absolutely remarkable what the Chintan Research Foundation has achieved in just one year," noting it has become a center for meaningful debates while bringing people together for dialogue.
In May 2026, Solheim previously stated that Prime Minister Modi is one of the most popular political leaders globally. He reported approval ratings around 68 percent at that time. According to him, these figures are "exceptional in modern democracies."
Solheim also defended India's democratic credentials, calling it the world's largest democracy with democratic roots deeply embedded in its history and traditions.
Additionally, Solheim has highlighted Modi's emphasis on renewable energy and sustainable development. He referred to him as "the guarantor of green growth."