Official visit to China

'It was a very constructive, candid and detailed meeting. This year marks 70 years since diplomatic relations were established between our two countries. We talked both about areas where there is good cooperation between Norway and China, and about issues where our views diverge,' said Prime Minister Støre.

Climate and the green transition

The two leaders discussed ways in which Norway and China can work together more closely to achieve climate targets and sustainability goals.

'China has a crucial role to play in achieving global climate targets. We discussed the expectations for the climate negotiations later this autumn. China's actions will greatly influence the course of the coming global green transition, and Norway as a major energy nation also has much to offer,' said the Prime Minister.

Trade and research

The Prime Minister and the President also discussed the bilateral relations between the two countries.

'A business delegation from Norway has accompanied me on this visit, and I emphasised that we are seeking to increase trade with China in areas that are in Norway's interests. Norway and China are coastal nations that work well together in matters relating to the maritime industry and the green transition. China is also an important market for Norwegian seafood,' said Mr Støre.

Visa-free travel

At the meeting in Beijing, China's President announced that Norwegians will no longer be required to apply for a visa to enter China for visits of up to 15 days.

'This will make travelling to China much easier for Norwegian business representatives, students and others. It also lays the foundation for more cooperation,' said Prime Minister Støre.

The Chinese authorities have recently granted visa-free travel to a number of other countries, including Ireland, Germany, Spain and Poland.

Human rights

Mr Støre also raised the issue of human rights in China.

'The human rights situation in China is worrying. I highlighted this in my conversation with President Xi Jinping. Norway urges the Chinese authorities to comply with their international obligations and stop human rights violations,' said Mr Støre.

Norway regularly raises the human rights situation in China, including in areas such as Xinjiang, Tibet and Hong Kong. Norway will continue to focus on various aspects of this issue.

Ukraine

Prime Minister Støre also discussed Russia's illegal war of aggression in Ukraine.

'We are aware that China has increased its influence in Russia and is providing support for Russia's war effort in Ukraine. During the meeting I pointed out that China's support to Russia is affecting relations between China and Europe,' said Mr Støre.

Divergent interests

The Prime Minister underscored the importance of maintaining a direct dialogue, including on issues where the two countries have diverging views and interests.

'Even though we benefit from cooperation with China, there are a number of areas in which China also poses an increasing security threat to Norway. It is possible and necessary to maintain constructive relations with countries with values and interests that differ from ours, but greater caution must be taken to protect Norwegian interests,' said Mr Støre.