Fredag 28. og lørdag 29. mars var den britiske energiministeren Brian Wilson vertskap for olje- og energiminister Einar Steensnæs på Shetland. Samtalene mellom de to ministrene dreide seg om hovedpunktene i en traktat om bl.a. gassrør fra Norge til Storbritannia.

Vedlagt er en felles uttalelse etter møtet:

Einar Steensnaes and Brian Wilson held discussions in the Shetlands to promote the future cross border North Sea cooperation.

They discussed in particular

• The use of existing infrastructure
• Rich gas
• Main principles applicable to a new Framework Agreement covering future commercial projects across the delimitation line between the Continental Shelf of the two States

The two Ministers recognise the freedom of movement of all hydrocarbons across the delimitation line so as to maximise value creation based on the best commercial solutions. They agreed to base their decisions on cross border projects in close cooperation with emphasis on consultation and sharing of information and according to non discriminatory and transparent procedures.

They noted that the UK and Norwegian offshore systems will become increasingly interconnected. This will require attention to understanding how the interface and systems will operate whilst ensuring a commercial level playing field, increased efficiency and that the best commercial solutions are chosen.

The ministers have agreed that work should continue urgently.