- The new Langeled pipeline gives Norwegian gas direct access into one of Europe’s most attractive gas markets. Thereby securing maximum value creation from our natural resources, said Jens Stoltenberg.

- This new pipeline strengthens the already close ties between Norway and the UK. I am pleased and proud that Norway is able to offer the UK a secure and reliable supply of energy, said Jens Stoltenberg at the opening of the Langeled gas pipeline. The opening took place in London today.

- Furthermore, the expansion of Norway’s offshore pipeline system creates the foundation for even further development of the Norwegian energy industry, said the Norwegian prime minister.

Stoltenberg opened the gas pipeline together with the British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Hydro’s President and CEO Eivind Reiten.

Langeled is 1 200 km long and thereby the world's longest subsea pipeline. The pipeline has a capacity of 20 billion cubic metres of gas per year which is about one fifth of UK gas demand.

It is the southern part of Langeled which is now in operation. Langeled South has a diameter of 44" and goes from the riser platform at the Sleipner field in the North Sea to the receiving terminal in Easington on the UK's East coast. The northern part of Langeled goes from Nyhamna on the North-West coast of Norway to Sleipner and will start operations in 2007, along with the start-up of the Ormen Lange field.

Langeled is a prerequisite for the development of Ormen Lange – the second largest gas field in Norway. The field development represents the best of Norwegian petroleum technology.

Langeled strengthens Norway's role as a stable and reliable supplier of energy to Europe.

Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg's speech at the opening of Langeled