On 28 May, the EU and Norway signed a Security and Defence Partnership.
The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, signed the declaration on behalf of the European Union. The Norwegian Ministers, Espen Barth Eide of Foreign Affairs and Bjørn Arild Gram of Defence signed on behalf of Norway. The new Security and Defence Partnership reflects the solid bilateral relations between the EU and Norway, its most closely associated partner.
The new Security and Defence Partnership reflects the solid bilateral relations between the EU and Norway, its most closely associated partner.
The EU is expanding its security and defence partnerships with selected countries to develop tailored and mutually beneficial cooperation. This new non-binding political framework aims to structure peace, security, and defence relations. The partnership takes EU-Norway relations to the next level, contributing to collective security and benefiting both Norwegian and EU citizens, a testament to the shared commitment to peace and stability.
The partnership covers a wide range of existing areas of cooperation, including Ukraine’s continued support, Norway’s participation in EU CSDP missions and operations, and its involvement in EU defence initiatives. It also boosts practical cooperation in crucial areas like maritime security, cyber security, and fighting foreign information manipulation and interference, including disinformation. Additionally, it introduces new consultations on peace mediation, further strengthening the partnership’s scope.
The partnership also identifies new opportunities for joint actions, such as resiliency of critical infrastructure and protection of underwater infrastructure. It fosters cooperation on the ground between EU Delegations and Norwegian Embassies.
