International Development Minister Erik Solheim announced today that Norway has allocated NOK 89 million to a coordinated international operation which will lead to the cancellation of Mozambique’s debt to private creditors. This will help to promote economic stability and to integrate the country into the world economy.

Mr Solheim is visiting Mozambique today and tomorrow in connection with his visit to southern Africa. Today he will also sign a new cooperation agreement with the Mozambican authorities on the annual transfer of NOK 330 million for the next four years.

“Mozambique has made good economic and political progress since the peace agreement was signed in 1992, but there are still challenges to be met,” said Mr Solheim. “Mozambique has now drawn up its second poverty reduction strategy, and we want to provide support for priority areas.”

In addition to budget support, the agreement also covers cooperation in the health, energy and fishery sectors. The environment, gender equality and the fight against HIV/AIDS are also emphasised in all of Norway’s bilateral cooperation with Mozambique. This is the first time that Norway has pledged development assistance over several years to a partner country

Press contact: Information Adviser Trine Broe-Andersen, mobile phone: +47 47 67 74 60