Strengthening Norway’s strategic cooperation with the UK
Press release | Date: 16/12/2024 | Office of the Prime Minister
‘The UK is one of Norway’s most important allies. These are challenging times, and we are now taking steps to further strengthen our bilateral ties. The new cooperation agreement sets the direction for us to work together to safeguard common interests such as those relating to defence and security, energy and the green transition,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
Today, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and UK Prime Minister Kier Starmer signed a new strategic partnership agreement between Norway and the UK.
‘The UK and Norway are close neighbours, separated by the North Sea. We share a history and a commitment to democratic values, and a responsibility for the Arctic and for stability and security in Europe. We cooperate closely in supporting Ukraine and in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East. This strategic partnership agreement further reinforces Norway’s broad-based and wide-ranging cooperation with the UK,’ said Mr Støre.
The new agreement includes the establishment in 2025 of a green industrial partnership between Norway and the UK, the renewal of the defence cooperation agreement, and Norwegian participation in the UK Carrier Strike Group.
‘We need knowledge and innovation to better equip us to face the future. The new green industrial partnership with the UK will be important in creating more green jobs here in Norway and for advancing the green transition. We are also establishing regular contact on both trade policy and national security,’ Mr Støre said.
The strategic partnership agreement was signed at the Northern Lights CO2 transport and storage facility in Øygarden outside Bergen. The two Prime Ministers were able to see first-hand how the facility will help to accelerate the green transition and reduce emissions.
Mr Støre and Mr Starmer also visited the Haakonsvern Naval Base, the main base of the Norwegian Navy, where they discussed the security situation in our common neighbouring areas and the potential for strengthening defence cooperation.
‘This was Keir Starmer’s first visit to Norway as UK Prime Minister. It is important to show our partners what Norway can bring to the table in our joint efforts to achieve our common goals. The visit to Bergen, Haakonsvern and Øygarden will pave the way for an even closer partnership with the UK,’ Mr Støre said.