‘We are contending with a serious security situation, and the Government is dealing with an increasing number of issues relating to national security. The Office of the Prime Minister plays a key role in driving and coordinating the efforts to implement the National Security Strategy. The appointment of one of the state secretaries at the Office of the Prime Minister to serve as National Security Adviser will further cement this role,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The National Security Adviser will advise the Prime Minister on matters relating to national security and the implementation of the National Security Strategy.

The appointment of a National Security Adviser at the Office of the Prime Minister will not alter the constitutional responsibilities of the government ministers. The government ministers are each responsible for implementing the National Security Strategy in their respective areas of responsibility.

‘The National Security Adviser will drive efforts relating to national security forward and ensure coordination between the ministries. The Security Adviser will also coordinate the work of the Office of the Prime Minister to follow up the National Security Strategy,’ said Mr Støre.

The Prime Minister has decided to appoint State Secretary Thomas Hornburg to serve as his National Security Adviser as part of his political staff. Since autumn 2021, Mr Hornburg’s portfolio as State Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister has included foreign policy, civil protection and defence policy.