News

Arctic Council welcomes new observers

[15.05.2013]

“I am pleased that six new countries and the EU have been granted observer status in the Arctic Council. This confirms the Arctic Council’s key position as an international forum for discussing Arctic issues,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide, who is taking part in the Kiruna Ministerial Meeting.

Norway resumes development assistance to Mali

[14.05.2013]

Elections in Mali have been announced with a view to ending the political crisis that has beset the country since the military coup last year. Norway will provide NOK 40 million in funding to support the election process and the transition to legitimate governance.

Election in Pakistan

[13.05.2013]

“I would like to congratulate Pakistan on a historic election. For the first time in the country’s history, a democratically elected government will be replaced by another democratically elected government,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Accreditation for the Barents Summit in Kirkenes 3–4 June 2013

Media Advisory

[13.05.2013]

The first 20 years of the Barents cooperation will be marked with a meeting of prime ministers in Kirkenes from 3 to 4 June. Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg will host the meeting. The deadline for accreditation is 27 May.

Norway condemns attack on UN in Abyei

[07.05.2013]

Norway condemns the attack on the UNISFA convoy in Abyei on 4 May in the strongest possible terms. Among the fatalities were an Ethiopian peacekeeper, the paramount chief of the Ngok Dinka tribe, Kuol Deng Majok, who was travelling in the convoy, and several young people.

Norway increases its assistance to Somalia to NOK 500 million

[07.05.2013]

“Somalia is in a critical phase. Norway aims to support that the progress made so far is not reversed. That is why we are increasing our development assistance by NOK 150 million and strengthening our cooperation with the Government of Somalia,” said Minister of International Development Heikki Eidsvoll Holmås.

Additional funding for the fight against international crime

[06.05.2013]

The Government is to provide NOK 26 million for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

Norway to give additional NOK 100 million to help Syrian refugees

[04.05.2013]

“The refugee crisis in Syria is on its way to becoming the worst since the Second World War. The Government is therefore increasing Norway’s assistance by NOK 100 million,” announced Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Visit by NATO Secretary General and the North Atlantic Council to Norway, 6–8 May

Notes to editors

[30.04.2013]

NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and the North Atlantic Council are to visit Norway on 6–8 May. The North Atlantic Council will visit Bodø and Tromsø, while the NATO Secretary General will visit Bodø and Oslo. The programme in Oslo includes an audience at the Royal Palace, a meeting with the President of the Storting and a meeting with the Prime Minister.

Norway increases its support for efforts to combat corruption in Latin America

[26.04.2013]

Norway is to provide NOK 30 million in support for the Inter-American Development Bank’s efforts to promote transparency and combat corruption.

Concern about judgment against Russian election watchdog Golos

[25.04.2013]

“The judgment against the NGO Golos and its leader, Lilia Shibanova, in Moscow today gives cause for concern. This is the first judgment to be passed since the recent amendments to Russian legislation on NGOs were introduced, and could make it more difficult for such organisations to work in the country,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Norway demands release of two kidnapped Syrian bishops

[25.04.2013]

“I am concerned about reports that the two top church leaders in Aleppo, Bishops Ibrahim and Yazaji, have been kidnapped. We have contacted the leader of the Free Syrian Army, and asked them to do all they can to find those responsible and ensure that the two bishops are released,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Norway provides NOK 240 million to efforts to eradicate polio

[25.04.2013]

Polio can be eradicated within the space of five to six years. Norway is to increase its level of support for efforts to eradicate polio by NOK 190 million, to NOK 240 million (USD 40 million).

Norway supports civil society in Syria

[23.04.2013]

“Given the grim situation in Syria today, it is important to support efforts to build up local civil leadership. Norway will provide funding to strengthen civil society capacity in Syria with a view to a political process and stabilisation in the future,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Kosovo and Serbia reach historic understanding

[19.04.2013]

- The agreement between Kosovo and Serbia in Brussels today is historic, says Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

70 years since the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising

[19.04.2013]

“It is with deep respect that we remember today the victims from the Jewish Ghetto in Warsaw. They showed tremendous courage in the uprising, and for that they paid the highest price,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Foreign Minister Eide reopened UN Security Council Chamber

[16.04.2013]

"The Security Council Chamber was a gift from Norway to the UN in 1952. I am delighted that Norway has taken responsibility for the renovation of what is perhaps the world's most important room," said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Norway following positive developments between Sudan and South Sudan closely

[15.04.2013]

Minister of International Development Heikki Eidsvoll Holmås is leading a high-level conference on South Sudan’s oil production together with the US authorities in Washington this week. State Secretary Arvinn Gadgil is visiting the capital of Sudan, Khartoum, and the capital of South Sudan, Juba.

Norway regrets Prime Minister Fayyad’s resignation

[14.04.2013]

“I regret that Salam Fayyad is resigning as Prime Minister of Palestine. Mr Fayyad has been a close partner for Norway for many years, and he is a politician for whom I have great respect. It is positive that Mr Fayyad will continue as Prime Minister for a transitional period,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Norway allocates NOK 700 million to Tanzanian rural energy fund

[10.04.2013]

Norway and Tanzania have signed an agreement under which Norway will provide NOK 700 million to Tanzania over a four-year period. This funding will be channelled to a rural energy fund in Tanzania that will give people in rural areas access to electricity.

Norway condemns killing of UN staff in South Sudan

[09.04.2013]

“Norway condemns the killing of 12 UN employees in South Sudan. Today’s attack is an attack not only on the UN, but also on the population of South Sudan, which the UN is there to assist,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Norway strengthens cooperation with Somalia

[09.04.2013]

“The Somali Government and Parliament are entering a decisive phase for the development of democracy and stable governance. Norway will be stepping up its engagement in the country,” said Minister of International Development Heikki Eidsvoll Holmås.

International meeting on energy and development in Oslo

[08.04.2013]

Energy is vital for development. Tuesday 9 April, Norway will host an international high-level meeting on energy and the post-2015 development agenda.

Norway doubles funding to the International Labour Organization

[08.04.2013]

“The Norwegian Government is making a historical commitment to promote better working conditions for people in developing countries through the ILO,” said Minister of International Development Heikki Eidsvoll Holmås.

New white paper: fair distribution is key to development

[05.04.2013]

Minister of International Development Heikki Eidsvoll Holmås has launched the white paper "Sharing for prosperity: Promoting democracy, fair distribution and growth in development policy". The Government is presenting a range of new measures to be used in the fight against poverty.

ILO European Regional Meeting in Oslo

Note for Editors

[04.04.2013]

The International Labour Organization (ILO) will hold its 9th European Regional Meeting focused on “Jobs, growth and social justice” in Oslo on 8-11 April.

UN adopts new international arms trade treaty

[02.04.2013]

“Norway is relieved and pleased that the arms trade treaty has finally been approved,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide. After a number of years of difficult negotiations, the UN General Assembly have adopted, for the first time ever, an international arms trade treaty aimed at regulating the trade in conventional weapons.

Relief after release of kidnapped Norwegian

[26.03.2013]

“I am pleased and relieved that the Norwegian woman who was kidnapped in the Sinai peninsula last Thursday has been released and is safe,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Important support for human rights defenders

[21.03.2013]

National legislation that restricts the legitimate work and activities of human rights defenders is unacceptable. This is the key message of a resolution adopted by the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. The resolution was put forward by Norway.

Evaluation of Norwegian Authorities' Handling of the In Amenas Crisis

[21.03.2013]

“The terror attack against the gas production facility at In Amenas in January shocked us all. Five Norwegian citizens lost their lives. The assault was the largest ever mounted against Norwegian interests in peacetime. We have therefore conducted a thorough review of the way Norwegian authorities handled the crisis,” says Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

Palestinian state on hold

[19.03.2013]

“After 20 years of support from donor countries like Norway, Palestinian institutions are now strong enough to serve as a basis for an independent Palestinian state. At today’s meeting, the donors agreed to increase their contributions. But without a credible political process towards a two-state solution, it will become increasingly difficult for the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC) to continue as before,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Norway working for international arms trade treaty

[18.03.2013]

“Irresponsible and illegal trade in arms costs many lives and causes great suffering every year. When the international negotiations on an international arms trade treaty start up again in New York, Norway will be at the forefront of efforts to ensure a strong and robust agreement,” said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

Important oil agreement between Sudan and South Sudan

[12.03.2013]

Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide commented, “I am pleased that Sudan and South Sudan agreed today on how South Sudan’s vital oil production can start up again in two weeks’ time, and on the transport of the oil through pipelines in Sudan. I commend the two leaders for reaching the necessary compromises.”

Election in Kenya

[09.03.2013]

“I congratulate the Kenyan people on a peaceful election,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Norway demands release of UN peacekeepers

[07.03.2013]

“It is absolutely unacceptable that Syrian rebels have taken UN peacekeepers hostage on the Golan Heights. They must be released immediately,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Norway urges Security Council to respond decisively to situation in Syria

[01.03.2013]

“Norway condemns the increasingly brutal attacks against the Syrian population and the recent use of Scud missiles, and I urge the Security Council to respond decisively,” said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

Peace agreement for DR Congo gives cause for hope

[25.02.2013]

“This agreement on peace, security and cooperation in the Democratic Republic of Congo offers hope to a population that has endured great suffering,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Cancellation of all Guinea’s debt

[15.02.2013]

The Norwegian Government has decided to cancel all Guinea’s debt to Norway, which amounts to around NOK 100 million (USD 17.2 million).

Climate services for everyone

[12.02.2013]

“Storms, floods and drought are becoming more and more frequent in Africa, causing huge problems for the continent. Africa is also more vulnerable to climate change than any other continent,” said Minister of International Development Heikki Eidsvoll Holmås.

Norway condemns North Korean nuclear test

[12.02.2013]

“Norway condemns the nuclear test carried out by North Korea in the strongest possible terms. We are concerned about the implications this may have for regional security in Asia,” said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

Norway pledges NOK 30 million to Mali

[11.02.2013]

The Norwegian Government is to contribute NOK 30 million to the UN trust funds for Mali. The Government is also willing to consider a contribution if the proposed UN-led peacekeeping operation to Mali is established.

Elisabeth Rasmusson congratulated on landing top UN job

[11.02.2013]

Elisabeth Rasmusson has been appointed Assistant Executive Director in the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). Ms Rasmusson is currently Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council. In her new position she will be one of four top managers under WFP Executive Director Ertharin Cousin.

Norway’s Foreign Minister condemns attack on Camp Liberty in Iraq

[09.02.2013]

“I condemn the attack on Camp Liberty last night. Reports indicate that several people were killed and a number of civilians and Iraqi police officers injured,” said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

Holmås concerned about inadequate legal protection in Somalia

[07.02.2013]

“I am concerned about the inadequate legal protection in Somalia, especially for women and journalists. Norway will give priority to democracy building and human rights issues in its cooperation with the Somali authorities,” said Minister of International Development Heikki Eidsvoll Holmås.

Eide condemns killing of politician in Tunisia

[06.02.2013]

“I condemn the killing of Tunisian opposition politician Chokri Belaid. Mr Belaid was one of the most outspoken opposition politicians in Tunisia, and was particularly concerned about freedom of expression,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

Uganda has paid back misused aid funds

[06.02.2013]

Uganda has transferred NOK 23 million to Norway in repayment for aid funds that had been misappropriated. Minister of International Development Heikki Eidsvoll Holmås commented, “This is the largest single repayment we have ever received.”

Norway and Afghanistan sign Agreement on Strategic Partnership

[05.02.2013]

Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg and Afghan President Hamid Karzai have signed an agreement on strategic partnership between Norway and Afghanistan. In the agreement, Afghanistan makes a commitment to good governance and combating corruption in exchange for continued Norwegian assistance.

Agreement on Kachin talks encouraging

[04.02.2013]

The Myanmar Government and the armed group Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) have agreed to continue talks with a view to finding a peaceful solution to the violent conflict in Kachin State. “This is encouraging news,” Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide commented.

Norway to give additional NOK 210 million to Syria

[30.01.2013]

The situation for the people in Syria and for Syrian refugees in the neighbouring countries continues to deteriorate. At a donor conference in Kuwait yesterday, Norway committed itself to an additional contribution of NOK 210 million for humanitarian assistance to Syria.

Historic cancellation of Myanmar’s debt to Norway

[28.01.2013]

Norway has decided to cancel the whole of Myanmar’s debt to Norway. The total amount is NOK 3.2 billion. Minister of International Development Heikki Eidsvoll Holmås commented, “This is historic, not only for Myanmar, but also for Norway. This is the largest developing country debt that we have ever cancelled. I am proud that once again Norway is leading the way.”