Norway’s intervention in the Joint-Meeting of Informal COMPET and FAC Trade

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Thank you, Minister Paszyk and congratulations to the Polish Presidency on a well-organized meeting.

Dear colleagues, dear friends.

President von der Leyen said in Davos that “continental scale is our greatest asset in a world of giants”.

The Agreement on the European Economic Area – the EEA Agreement – extends the EU’s internal market with Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway to a total of 30 countries. Allowing for scale.

The EEA states increase the Internal Market size and geographical scope, and we contribute with energy, raw materials, goods and services to increased open strategic autonomy and security in Europe.

Facing a more uncertain world and expecting turbulent times for international trade, my key message today is: Be mindful of the mutual value of the EEA Agreement and do not put it at risk!

To be precise: The EEA-EFTA states must not be subject to the scope of any potential safeguard measures introduced by the EU as a response to changes in trade flows that new US tariffs may trigger.

Restrictions on trade within the Internal Market could entail serious disruptions to our highly integrated supply and value chains.

A well-functioning Internal Market is essential to regain our competitiveness.

My second message is that Europe should not backtrack on its green ambitions.

At same time, there is a dire need to address the transitional challenges for businesses.

Norway welcomes the EU Competitiveness Compass. We believe this can show us how to ensure a more competitive framework for investing in and doing business in Europe. We look forward to continuing the dialogue on everything it includes

Finally, Norway will continue to be a strong partner for the EU in the green transition, to this end, the EU-Norway Green Alliance and the strategic partnership are useful tools for deeper cooperation.

Thank you.