Increased focus on culture and public diplomacy abroad

In connection with the Government’s promotion of culture, an increase of NOK 10 million in funding for culture and public diplomacy abroad has been proposed, making the total allocated to this area NOK 95.5 million. This represents an increase of 60% since 2005.  

“Funding for foreign cultural policy and public diplomacy is intended to underpin Norway’s political priorities and interests. Cooperating with cultural organisations and art communities abroad is key in this context,” Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre commented.  

“Artists dare to communicate new messages, they dare to let their ideas interact and wrestle with international trends. Artists’ encounters with the world around them open up new arenas for dialogue, and create new points of contact and opportunities. Art opens doors, it opens eyes, and it opens ears. We must be aware of how to make use of   these possibilities,” Mr Støre said. 

Increased funding will also expand the breadth of, and commitment to, cultural cooperation in the Government’s High North Strategy.  

“Larger allocations in this area will give us the opportunity to increase cooperation between artistic and cultural arenas in North Norway and Russia. This is an exciting dimension of our High North efforts,” Mr Støre added.  

“We attach importance to  efforts in the area of public diplomacy, which is an integral part of modern foreign policy. Working systematically and increasing awareness in this area are vital if we are to create a clear and positive image of Norway abroad,” Mr Støre said.