- During the course of this year, the High North has been firmly placed on the map of Europe. Decision makers in other countries have realised that the High North has significance that extends far beyond Norway’s borders, said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The reasons for the international interest in the High North are the living marine resources in the Barents Sea, global climate change, which is most obvious in the Arctic, and the Norwegian and Russian petroleum resources in the Barents Sea. Increasing attention is also being directed to the importance of protecting the unique environment in the north and the ecosystems that produce living resources for future generations.

- Our message is that Norway’s stewardship, and Norway’s invitation to cooperation, will be crucial for sustainable development in the region, said Mr Støre.

The presentation of the Government’s High North strategy in Tromsø today put the spotlight on a new dimension of Norway’s foreign policy. This includes increased activity and a stronger strategic focus on maintaining longstanding Norwegian interests, developing cooperation with Russia, and gaining acceptance for the importance of sound management of resources and efforts to protect the environment and respond to climate change. The focus on the High North will make it easier to see these issues, and how they are interrelated, in the context of our foreign policy vis-à-vis other countries and in international forums.

According to the strategy, a long-term perspective and predictability are important factors in Norway’s High North policy. As our activities increase, Norway’s approach in the High North will continue to be consistent. The Government will safeguard Norway’s interests through its presence and its activities.

- By maintaining a presence, and exercising its sovereignty and authority, Norway is making it clear that it is taking its international and national obligations seriously. Therefore, the presence of the defence forces, the police and the prosecuting authority continues to be of great importance, said Mr Støre.

People-to-people cooperation is an important part of Norway’s High North policy. Health, education, culture, sport, child and youth work and volunteer activities are key components, and these will involve closer contact with Russia. Opportunities for people to come together to take part in joint activities in these areas foster mutual understanding and trust which in turn foster stability and development in the High North. The strategy indicates that the Barents Cooperation will continue to play an important role in creating meeting places and networks for people in the High North.

Another key aspect of Norway’s High North policy is its relations with Russia. Russia is undergoing rapid economic development. The changes that are taking place in the country’s economy, society and politics do not affect the objectives of Norway’s policy, but developments will be followed closely and measures adapted accordingly. Norway’s policy towards Russia is based on pragmatism, interests and cooperation.

- Norway will continue to speak out with a clear voice on issues relating to the development of democracy in Russia, human rights and freedom of expression. Here too we will be consistent, said Mr Støre.

There are plans to strengthen cooperation with Russia, for example on the management of resources and the environment in the Barents Sea, and on energy issues. Cooperation with Russia and other countries on the fight against illegal fishing in the Barents Sea will also be strengthened.

An exchange programme for Russian students is launched in the strategy, and a proposal is presented for an economic and industrial cooperation zone, which would include both Norwegian and Russian territory in the border areas of the High North. New measures will also be identified to facilitate border crossing between Norway and Russia, which are to be implemented independently of the proposed cooperation zone.