Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on the situation in northeastern Syria

Renewed armed hostilities in northeastern Syria will further undermine the stability of the region, threaten the progress achieved by the global coalition against ISIL, and exacerbate civilian suffering, displacement and humanitarian needs.

Due to the complex and rapidly changing situation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has, as a precautionary measure, decided not to process new applications for licences to export defence-related products or dual-use items for military use to Turkey until further notice.

We are currently reviewing all valid export licences for defence-related products and dual-use items for military use to Turkey.

We fully support the statement on on the situation in northeastern Syria issued by EU member countries after the meeting in the Security Council yesterday.

We are also concerned about the arrests of journalists and politicians in Turkey who have voiced criticism of the military operation.

Norway will continue to follow developments closely, and will remain in close contact with its partners in the international community and NATO.