Further high-level phone call to discuss energy crisis in Europe

Last Wednesday, the European Commission presented its proposals for measures to address the very difficult energy situation in Europe. This is the second time in under a week that Mr Støre and Ms von der Leyen have discussed the energy crisis by telephone.

‘It is vital to maintain a close dialogue with our partners and allies in Europe on various solutions to the challenging situation that has arisen in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. From the outset, Norway has done all it can to alleviate the situation in Europe, and Norwegian companies have substantially increased their natural gas production. Norwegian gas supplies to Europe have risen by 8 % since the start of the war,’ said Prime Minister Støre.

The Norwegian Prime Minister fully understands the need for the countries of Europe to find solutions to the energy crisis.

‘We agreed to have an even closer dialogue with the EU in the time ahead regarding the various proposals that have been put forward. We will approach these discussions with an open mind, but we are sceptical about introducing a price cap on gas. This will not solve the fundamental problem, namely that there is a shortage of gas in Europe,’ said Mr Støre.

Mr Støre stated that it is in the interests of both Norway and the EU to promote a more stable energy market. Mr Støre and Ms von der Leyen discussed the role that long-term contracts can play in ensuring greater market stability. Mr Støre stressed that it is up to the energy companies themselves to enter into long-term contracts of this kind.