Norwegian Government launches new China strategy

On 14 August, the Government held the first meeting of its newly established China forum. Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre presented the Government’s China strategy, and International Development Minister Erik Solheim gave a briefing on Norway’s development cooperation with China.

“This is a broad strategy with emphasis on increased market access, climate change, equitable distribution and international cooperation with China. At the same time, we want to continue the open dialogue we have with China on strengthening democracy and human rights,” said Mr Støre.

“We hope the China strategy will pave the way for broad cooperation between the public authorities and the business sector, within the education and research sectors, and with NGOs that are engaged in issues relating to China,” Mr Støre continued.

“China’s economic growth is the most significant development the world has seen in the last 30 years,” commented Mr Solheim. “No other process in history has lifted so many people out of poverty in such a short time as is now happening in China.”

“However, China’s economic growth also entails huge environmental problems, and the Chinese are aware of this. Norway is a small country, but in the areas of environmental technology and expertise, Norway can make a contribution that will make a real difference for China,” Mr Solheim added.

• Read the strategy.