Norway Plans More Active Role in European Policies

Norway voiced its intention to take a more active role in European policies, saying it wants to intervene in the early stages of European debates. 

“It is in our national interest to cooperate closely with the EU and to participate actively in the ongoing political processes in Europe. In order to successfully influence important decisions, Norway must be more clear and assertive, and more active in the early stages of debate on issues of European policy,” said Minister and Chief of Staff at the Office of the Prime Minister Vidar Helgesen in a note released on Wednesday.

According to the document, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs elevates cooperation with the EU to elevate its cooperation with Europe to a higher level, as that is the only way to safeguard Norwegian interests in ‘priority areas.’

“If we are to gain support for our views, we must get involved in debates at the European level at an early stage, rather than presenting our input only when negotiations on the matter within the EU have practically been completed. This requires better coordination of Norway’s European policy,” said Helgesen, adding that the intensified relations will express the will of ‘Norwegian companies, regional and local authorities, the social partners, and other actors in society.’