Norway authorises defence exports to Moldova

In light of the extraordinary security situation, the Government considers it consistent with the Storting’s long-standing principles for Norwegian export control to provide military support to the Republic of Moldova.

Since 2022, Norway has provided approximately NOK 2.5 billion in civilian support to Moldova through the Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine. The Government now wishes to be able to support Moldova militarily as well. Any military support from Norway will be funded through the ordinary defence budget, not through the Nansen Support Programme.

The fundamental principle of Norway’s export control regime is to safeguard Norway’s foreign and security policy interests. The Government considers Moldova to be particularly affected by the consequences of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Moldova shares borders with Ukraine and a NATO member state, and has a reform-oriented, pro-European government seeking EU membership.

Moldova has not previously been authorised to receive defence materiel from Norway. Although there is no imminent risk of armed conflict in Moldova, the country is subject to extensive hybrid activities by Russia aimed at undermining its democratically elected authorities and its pro-European course. It is in the security interests of Moldova, Norway and Europe that Moldova should be able to receive defence materiel from Norwegian companies.

Following a thorough assessment of the domestic and foreign policy situation in Moldova, the Government has therefore decided that exports from Norway of defence materiel (Category A and Category B materiel), as well as related services and training, brokering and technology transfers, may be permitted.

All applications for the export of defence materiel to Moldova will be subject to the same strict control mechanisms that have been established for exports of defence materiel to Ukraine. Exports may only be made to the authorities of Moldova as the end user. Each application will be assessed thoroughly and individually on the basis of established criteria and documentation requirements.

Norwegian companies will now be able to apply to DEKSA for an export licence to export defence materiel for end use in Moldova. DEKSA will also publish guidance material explaining how companies may apply for export licences for Moldova.