The last leg of Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang’s trip to Europe was to hold meetings with leaders in Norway. Norway, not a member of the European Union, has a long relationship with China dating back to 1888. There were the usual discussions about trade, the war in Ukraine, and the usual “concerns” raised about human rights, focusing on Hong Kong and Xinjiang, both of which Minister Qin characterized as issues of national security rather than “human rights.” The meetings, however, seemed to be less contentious than with other meetings he has had on his trip, which included France and Germany.
Notably, Qin told the media in Norway that any European country worried about “de-risking” from China, would do well to increase its exports to China, which would increase “sureness” of relations.
Trade with China is important for Norway, and the Norwegian officials, including Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, seemed to be positive about the role China is trying to play in negotiating a peace deal in Ukraine.
Qin also talked about Norway’s role as the rotating chair of the Arctic Council, saying it was important for the Arctic region to remain an area of peace and openness. While China is not a member of the Arctic Council, it does occupy an observer position. The United States has moved to defy geography, and deny Russia’s participation in the Arctic Council.
