‘We are experiencing the most serious security policy situation since the Second World War. In a world characterised by growing uncertainty and rapid change, we must adapt the Foreign Service to safeguard Norwegian interests in the best possible way,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs, Espen Barth Eide. 

These changes form part of a wider review of Norway’s Foreign Service. 

Embassy to be Established in Doha 

The Government has decided to establish an embassy in Doha. Norway and Qatar established diplomatic relations in 1973 and already cooperate closely in a number of areas, both economically and politically. The Norwegian Embassy in Doha will help strengthen and further develop cooperation between Norway and Qatar. 

Norway has a long-standing business partnership with Qatar, which has considerable potential for expansion and increased Norwegian exports. Qatar is an important donor country Norway works closely with. It is also a key international actor contributing to diplomacy and conflict resolution. 

‘Norway’s engagement with Qatar has increased significantly in recent years. This is a natural consequence of the increasingly important role Qatar, and the Gulf countries play, both regionally and internationally. Opening an embassy in Qatar reflects the strong cooperation between our two countries, including in the field of conflict resolution, as well as our shared economic interests in areas such as energy, the green transition, technology, and defense cooperation and industry,’ said the Minister of Foreign Affairs. 

About Norway’s foreign service: 

  • Norway’s Foreign Service has around 2,400 employees in total. Of these, just over 600 diplomats are posted to Norway’s 90 foreign service missions, alongside around 1,100 locally employed staff.   
  • Approximately 120 of the staff posted to Norway’s foreign service missions are seconded from other ministries and government agencies