Plans to strengthen cooperation on the green transition

‘China has a critical role to play in implementing the green transition. Norway has worked together with China on climate and environmental issues for some 30 years. I am pleased that we now have an overall framework in place to facilitate even better cooperation in this area,’ said Prime Minister Støre.

Joint declaration

Prime Minister Støre and Premier Li Qiang issued a joint declaration (PDF) on the green transition after the meeting on Tuesday.

‘The goal is to enable Norwegian and Chinese businesses to work together more closely to successfully implement the green transition. It is our hope that this will open doors for the Norwegian business community in China,’ said Mr Støre. 

Norway and China also signed a memorandum of understanding (PDF) that will enhance cooperation between the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment and the Chinese authorities to address climate change. The MoU sets out the framework for broader, more targeted cooperation than has been the case up to now.

Business delegation

Prime Minister Støre is accompanied by a business delegation that includes representatives of DNV Accelerator, Equinor, Höegh Autoliners, Kongsberg Maritime, Nordlaks, the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association, Orkla, Yara International, the Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions and the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise. Many of the companies represented have considerable expertise in the green transition and green shipping, with existing operations in China.

After the meeting with Premier Li Qiang, representatives of the Norwegian and Chinese business sectors took part in a working lunch to mark the start of the green dialogue between Norway and China.

‘A number of the Norwegian companies present in China are working in the fields of green technology and green shipping. The discussions here could have ramifications for jobs and employees at home in Norway, and may lead to the creation of future green jobs. This is also essential for achieving our climate targets,’ said Mr Støre.

Wide-ranging discussions

The Prime Minister and the Chinese Premier discussed a wide range of topics during their meeting in Beijing. Items on the agenda included trade between the two countries, cooperation in international forums, China’s support to the Russian war against Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East. The human rights situation in China, including in Xinjiang and Tibet, was also discussed.

‘We had frank and constructive talks, including in areas where we disagree. Norway’s dialogue is rooted in our interests and values. We stand up for Norwegian social values and international human rights,’ said Mr Støre.