Norway to strengthen strategic cooperation with France

‘France is Norway’s close ally and partner. These are challenging times, and we are now taking steps to strengthen our bilateral ties even further. This partnership will reinforce our shared interest in increasing security in Europe, enhancing competitiveness and helping to ensure a sustainable future for the coming generations,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The agreement was signed during President Macron’s official visit to Norway on Monday. This is a broad partnership that encompasses, among other things, defence and security, support for Ukraine, increased resilience and preparedness, climate change, competitiveness, and higher education and research.

The partnership is intended to help ensure that Europe is equipped to deal with the security challenges of today and of the future.

‘We will expand our defence cooperation, especially in the north, at sea and in space. Together we will increase Europe’s preparedness and stand united against attacks on critical infrastructure and attempts to undermine democracy,’ said Mr Støre.

Read the agreement in full here:

• Strategic partnership between the Kingdom of Norway and The French Republic (PDF)
• Partenariat stratégique entre Le Rayaume de Norvège et La Republique Francaise (PDF)
• Signed version (PDF)

As part of the agreement the two countries reaffirm their commitment to achieving the climate targets.

‘Norway and France will strengthen cooperation on the green transition and lay a foundation for advancing the green industries and technologies of the future. This will help us achieve our climate targets, create new jobs and increase resilience in Europe. We discussed these topics with Norwegian and French business leaders earlier today as well. I am confident that we will soon see far greater cooperation in these areas,’ said Mr Støre.

During the visit the parties also signed an agreement on cross-border transport and storage of CO₂.

The agreement also paves the way for closer cooperation between higher education institutions, increased opportunities for student and academic exchanges, and joint efforts to improve internet safety for children.

‘Norway and France have a long-standing tradition of excellent cooperation in the education and research sector, and we have now agreed to develop this even further. We will also work together to promote safe use of the internet for children, among other things by regulating children’s access to social media,’ said the Prime Minister.

Norway and France have a shared commitment to fundamental values relating to democracy and human rights, international law and cooperation across countries, including in NATO and the UN. The two countries are also cooperating closely in supporting Ukraine and in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East. The new partnership agreement further reinforces our broad-based and wide-ranging cooperation with France.