‘Germany is Norway’s most important partner, a close ally and a country with which we share common values and interests. We have now agreed to take steps to further strengthen our cooperation. Germany is taking a leadership role in Europe at a time of turbulence and uncertainty, and Norway supports its efforts. I had a constructive meeting with Chancellor Merz, ’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The joint declaration sets out an overall framework for enhancing cooperation between Norway and Germany in key areas.

‘We are reaffirming and reinforcing our mutually beneficial cooperation. There is potential to further expand this cooperation in areas such as space capabilities, critical minerals, maritime infrastructure, CCS, energy supply and security, decarbonisation and climate, and defence and security. The details will be defined more closely in the time ahead,’ said Mr Støre.

Norway is engaged in wide-ranging defence industrial cooperation with Germany, and several industrial partnerships are already in place. Norway is also Germany’s most important gas supplier.

The green transition was another topic discussed at the meeting with Mr Merz:

‘Carbon capture and storage has a key role to play in reducing global CO₂ emissions and mitigating climate change. Norway is working to establish commercially viable CCS storage technology and will maintain a dialogue with Germany on solutions for cross-border transport and storage of CO2,’ said Mr Støre.

The two leaders also discussed support for Ukraine.

‘Norway and Germany are cooperating to provide more air defence to Ukraine, and Norway will cover the German repurchasing costs for one of the air defence batteries. Russian airstrikes against cities in Ukraine have escalated. Hundreds of drones and missiles are being aimed at Ukraine day and night. It is therefore critical that Europe increases its efforts to support Ukraine, and Norway intends to do its part,’ said Mr Støre. 

The Prime Minister and Chancellor also discussed a variety of other issues, including the global economy, international trade and the situation in the Middle East.