Oslo Security Conference: Remarks by the High Representative Kaja Kallas at the Joint Press Point with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre
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Thank you, Jonas, for having us here. It is always a pleasure to come to Norway.
We are good partners. And I think in this geopolitical environment, we really need to stick together on different issues, when it comes to overall security, when it comes to economic security, when it comes to the crises that we have around the world, whether it is in Ukraine, that we discussed also today, or the Middle East.
In Ukraine, we see Russia bombing again civilians this night previously. So, we really need to do more. For the energy infrastructure also, we thank Norway for the support of energy that you have given to Ukraine recently.
And of course, on the Middle East, we really need to move to the second phase of the peace process in Gaza, and we are willing to contribute to that. Today, also the Rafah border crossing will be likely opened. It is a major step towards sustainable peace.
So, thank you for having us, and thank you for also showing us the Arctic, which is a very important topic right now.
Q&A:
Q. There seems to be a deepening rift between NATO and the EU when it comes to European security. A rift between yourself and Kubilius and Mark Rutte. How do you see this? And in addition, how should Norway position itself in this sort of rift, should it be closer to EU or just keep on holding US as a strong ally.
Well, I do not agree that there is a rift, actually. We are trying to do in the European Union to help our Member States to increase their defence spending, and also do it together with all the other states, and also countries like Norway, so that we are ready. And also, 23 members of the European Union are also part of NATO. So really, we are collaborating with NATO. It is in addition to what NATO is doing, and we really work hand in hand.
Q. But do you agree with Mark Rutte that Europe cannot do without the US, who was very clear on that?
Well, right now the situation is such, but we are working to be more independent, also when it comes to security, because it is clear that our vulnerabilities are our weaknesses, and that is why we are working to invest more in defence, also the capabilities. And also, consider it European and not only national.
Q. It seems like Donald Trump has pulled back a bit on his threats to take Greenland. Does that mean that the EU's focus is a little bit more relaxed towards the EU taking care of itself security-wise, and more focused on Ukraine? Or are you still stressed about Greenland?
The word for this year is going to be unpredictability, so we have to be ready for everything that comes. Regarding the Arctic, we have discussions about Arctic security, that is in our common interest. And we are, of course, working together with our NATO allies to also focus on security in the Arctic. We have the new Arctic Strategy coming out to really focus on all the issues that we have been talking about. So, yes, our work continues.
Q. Regarding the Arctic strategy, in, the two previous strategies, you declared a wish for a moratorium on hydrocarbon production in the Arctic. Do you think you will uphold this wish for this moratorium in the next one?
The discussions for the Arctic security strategy are still ongoing. So, what is going to be there, what is different, is that previously, it talked about more climate change, all the issues there, but now we really need to take into account security as well. So, that is going to be different. But I cannot tell what is in it, because the discussions are ongoing.
Link to the video: https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/media/video/I-284325