‘Safe passage and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz are important to Norway as a shipping nation and are also vital for safeguarding global supply chains and the global economy. Norway will participate in the international initiative to ensure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted the meeting, which brought together participants from 49 other countries and certain international organisations. They discussed ways in which the international community can use diplomatic and economic means to support freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the potential role of a defensive maritime mission in achieving that objective.

‘During the meeting I confirmed that Norway stands ready to participate in the diplomatic and political effort to support freedom of navigation at sea. Norway is also exploring how Norway could contribute to a maritime mission if the necessary conditions are in place. I also underlined the need to uphold the ceasefire and continue negotiations with a view to reaching a lasting solution to the conflict between Iran, the US and Israel,’ said Mr Støre.

The initiative is being led by France and the UK. Mr Støre emphasised the importance of respect for international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Some 25 ships linked to Norway are currently inside the Strait of Hormuz. The Norwegian authorities are maintaining close contact with the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association and other relevant Norwegian actors.