Export licences to Saudi Arabia
Historical archive
Published under: Solberg's Government
Publisher: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
News story | Date: 09/11/2018
‘We have decided that, in the current situation, no new licences are to be granted for exports of defence-related products or dual-use items for military use to Saudi Arabia. We stopped processing new applications some time ago, pending this decision. Norway has never allowed exports of arms or ammunition to Saudi Arabia,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Ine Eriksen Søreide.
The decision was taken after an overall assessment of recent developments in Saudi Arabia and the region, and the unpredictable situation in Yemen.
The Ministry emphasises that it is not aware that Norwegian defence-related products have been used in Yemen. The decision reflects the strict precautionary approach taken by Norway.
‘Norway’s exports of defence-related products are subject to very strict export control legislation. Applications for the export of defence-related products and dual-use items that have already been approved have been thoroughly considered on an individual basis. If there was considered to be an unacceptable risk of the products or items in question being used for internal oppression or serious violations of international humanitarian law or human rights, a license would not be granted.