The Role of International Cooperation in Science

The Kavli Prize Science Forum, Oslo 6 September 2010

[06.09.2010]

Science and research represent large world wide networks that are so vital for facing the world’s global challenges, Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said in his opening remarks at the Kavli Prize Science Forum.

Belarus. Opposition activist Aleh Byabenin’s death

[06.09.2010]

“We extend our condolences to Aleh Byabenin’s loved ones at this difficult time. I would also like to stress that it is important that the circumstances surrounding his death are clarified quickly and thoroughly,” Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre commented.

Opening remarks at Conference on Humanitarian Access

The Norwegian Refugee Council, Oslo 6 September 2010

[06.09.2010]

My point of departure is based on three premises: First, that the humanitarian principles are not western values – but universal and global; Second, that both states and non-state actors have the responsibility to respect and uphold international humanitarian law; and Third, that access will depend on how an organisation is perceived and the extent to which it is accepted in the field.

Strengthening Protection for Human Rights Defenders

Litteraturhuset, Oslo, 3 September 2010

[03.09.2010]

We are now issuing guidelines on human rights defenders for our embassies – to enhance our efforts at the bilateral level. The guidelines set out a variety of actions that will enable our embassies to support and protect human rights defenders, Foreign Minister Støre said in his opening address at the seminar in Oslo 3 September 2010.

Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue in Geneva falls prey to fraud

[02.09.2010]

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs became aware this summer that the Director of Finance and Administration at the Centre for Humanitarian Dialgoue in Geneva is suspected of fraud. The HD Centre is a Geneva-based foundation that works with the prevention and resolution of conflict.

Norway condemns killing of four Israeli citizens

[01.09.2010]

On Tuesday 31 August, four Israeli citizens were shot dead close to the Israeli settlement of Kiryat Arba on the West Bank. Hamas has taken responsibility for this outrage, which took place on the day before the start of negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians in Washington.

Cooperation in the Baltic Sea Region from the CBSS perspective

The 19th Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference, Mariehamn 30 August 2010

[30.08.2010]

On behalf of the Norwegian chairmanship of the Council of the Baltic Sea States State Secretary Erik Lahnstein gave this address about Norwegian priorities for the chairmanship at the Baltic Sea parliamentarians conference, Mariehamn, Åland, 30 August.

Direct peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians

[20.08.2010]

«I welcome the news that the US has invited Israel and the Palestinians to resume direct talks,» said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. «Norway urges the parties to respond positively to the US invitation, and to seize this opportunity to make progress in the negotiations. This will put the peace process back on track.»