Norwegian Prime Minister met with President of European Commission

The meeting took place before Mr Støre and Ms von der Leyen left the city to visit the Troll A gas platform. Norway’s key role as a supplier of energy to Europe’s was among the topics they discussed.

‘Companies operating on the Norwegian continental shelf have increased gas exports to Europe following Russia’s drastic reduction of gas supplies in connection with the war in Ukraine. Norway will be a stable and reliable supplier of gas to Europe, which is in the midst of an energy crisis. We are taking the steps needed to maintain high production levels over the next five years,’ said Mr Støre.

Mr Støre and Ms von der Leyen also discussed cooperation on the green transition.

‘We must continue our efforts to deal with the immediate energy shortage, but at the same time we must work to find long-term solutions to increase renewable energy production both in Europe and here at home. Norway has experience and expertise that will be of great importance in fully realising the green transition that is already under way,’ said Mr Støre.

The two leaders also discussed the need to enhance European competitiveness in the face of tough global competition.

‘Norway and the EU are working together on the green transition. Norway’s green industries have close ties to industries and markets in Europe. Norway can provide key contributions in the areas of battery technology, minerals, offshore wind, hydrogen, and carbon capture and storage,’ said Mr Støre.

The discussions also focused on the war in Ukraine and its many ramifications.

‘Norway and the EU stand united in supporting Ukraine. We talked about Norway’s long-term Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine, and I told Ms von der Leyen that today we announced we will provide NOK 2 billion in budget support to Ukraine. This is necessary to enable the Ukrainian government administration to continue to finance health, education and other social services. We have also discussed the need to strengthen the capacity of the European defence industry. Norway has entered into a large-scale contract with ammunition manufacturer Nammo, in order to increase predictability and expand production capacity. Norway is part of the joint European solutions, and it is crucial for Ukraine and for our collective security that we continue to build on our already excellent cooperation,’ said Mr Støre.