In his annual address to the Storting on 8 February, Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre stressed the importance of international cooperation and dialogue.
01/03/2006 :: Some of main issues raised by Jonas Gahr Støre were:
The Middle East:
“ The vast majority of people do not want violence and confrontation. The situation in the Middle East, and particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, requires wise political decisions, the will to negotiate and a sense of joint responsibility. I have noted that the many statements by political and religious leaders who are denouncing the use of violence and are also emphasising the importance of showing respect for all religions.”
United Nations:
“Norway will be at the forefront of efforts to achieve a more just and inclusive world. The best way to achieve this is to strengthen and reform the UN and other multilateral institutions.”
“Our foreign policy involves utilising the opportunities we have to promote peace, reconciliation and development. We are in a particularly good position to do this, which gives us a historic responsibility to help people who are suffering from conflict and want to forge a future of peace and development.”
The High North:
“Our ambition is to be at the cutting edge in all areas of knowledge relevant to the north- in fisheries, energy, the environment, climate, the Law of the Sea, resource management, indigenous rights and cultural cooperation.”
“Norway’s relations with Russia have been developing, and are now more extensive than ever before. I am pleased that we have such a fruitful political dialogue. There is an active exchange of visits in most areas of society. The Government is currently drawing up an action plan for our relations with Russia, and we aim to present this during Prime Minister Fradkov’s visit to Norway next month.”
Africa:
“In the next few months, the Government will invite Norwegian centres of excellence to a brainstorming session on Norwegian foreign policy priorities as regards Africa.”
Europe:
“In the course of this spring the Government will draw up an action plan that will enable us to implement a proactive, clear and open European policy. This will be based on a three-pronged strategy. Firstly, setting clear and timely political priorities. Secondly, focusing and streamlining our efforts and making the best possible use of the opportunities we have to exert an influence. And thirdly, taking a constructive approach to our obligations.”
The Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs