Oslo, 8 February 2005

As announced on 22 November 2004, Norway intends to become part of a joint battlegroup with Sweden and Finland to be on a first standby period from 1 January to 30 June 2008. Our participation in a Nordic Battlegroup demonstrates our continued commitment to the further development of the European Security and Defence Policy.

In line with the Agreement between the European Union and the Kingdom of Norway establishing a framework for the participation of the Kingdom of Norway in the European Union crisis management operations, Norway's commitment of forces to a Nordic Battlegroup will not prejudge the case-by-case nature of the decisions of Norway to participate in an EU-led crisis management operation as a part of a Nordic Battlegroup.

Norway will make her decisions to participate in an operation based on close co-operation and consultations with the two Nordic countries. In addition, Norway would look forward to continue consultations and co-operation with the EU on its contributions to the ESDP.

A decision by Norway to participate in an EU-led crisis management operation as part of a Nordic Battlegroup will be in accordance with Norwegian constitutional requirements and follow national procedures for such decisions.

As stated in the Nordic declaration of 22 November 2004, employment of the Nordic Battlegroup will be based on the principles of the UN Charter and be in accordance with international law.

Yours sincerely
Jan Petersen

H.E. Dr. Javier Solana
The Secretary General of the Council of the European Union and
High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy
Brussels

Conseil de L'union Européenne
Le secrétaire general / Haut représentant

Brussels, 18.02.2005

Dear Minister,

I have taken note of your letter of 8 February 2005 setting out the Norwegian government's understanding of its participation in the EU Battle Group concept.

I will bring the content of your letter to the attention of the Presidency of the European Union and its Member States.

Allow me to thank you once more for the further valuable contribution Norway has made towards the improvement of European capabilities.

Yours sincerely
Javier SOLANA

H.E. Mr. Jan Petersen
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Kingdom of Norway