As Norway commemorates 70 years since becoming the first Western country to establish diplomatic relations with China, a new chapter unfolds in the Norway-China partnership. During his recent official visit to China, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre sat down with journalist Zou Yun on the high-speed train from Beijing to Shanghai to discuss future areas of cooperation between the two nations.
Highlighting the longstanding friendship and cooperation that define Norway’s relationship with China, Prime Minister Støre expressed optimism about the deepening ties. The recent granting of 15-day visa-free access to Norwegian citizens by China is a significant step toward fostering closer connections between the peoples of both countries.
“No country has gone through such a profound change and transition as China,” Støre remarked, acknowledging the remarkable development China has experienced over the past decades. He emphasized the importance of this transformation in the context of global affairs and Norway’s engagement with China.
Discussing areas of mutual interest, Støre highlighted the significant implications for bilateral relations and global engagement, particularly in addressing climate change, biodiversity protection, peace, and development. He noted that China’s initiatives on these fronts are “worth studying” and that Norway looks forward to seeing more contributions from China.
The Prime Minister’s visit signals a commitment to enhancing cooperation and exploring new opportunities for partnership. With both countries facing common global challenges, the strengthened relationship between Norway and China holds promise for meaningful progress on critical international issues.
As the world navigates complex environmental and geopolitical landscapes, the dialogue between Norway and China exemplifies the potential of international collaboration. The deepening partnership not only benefits the two nations but also contributes to broader efforts toward peace, sustainability, and prosperity.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
