Clarity in the meeting with Trump
Norway’s close relationship with the United States is not something you throw overboard because of a president without impulse control, but there is no reason to act servile or submissive when you visit the pond.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg meet President Donald Trump in the White House on Thursday. It can certainly create temperature if the Norwegian top management chooses recording, but we think that the situation itself requires clarity, as, among other things, SV has expectations for.
Norwegian interests related to customs, economics and a joint defense alliance should be important issues, due to the uncertainty created in the last months of the Trump administration’s unpredictable behavior.
The support for Denmark will also be a clear message that Norway’s rights are not in play, such as Svalbard and the treaty that is available. The Arctic is currently the subject of great interest and attention – and here it is crucial with all imaginable clarity. For us in border countries to Russia, the geopolitical situation is extremely important.
It is perhaps one of the most scary – and that concern should be with Norway’s top duo. Just as we, in the face of China and Russia, should say clearly when it comes to violating human rights and democratic foundations, such as freedom of the press and freedom of speech.
It can do something about the will to buy Norwegian salmon, but these are foundations that should not be ricked. Cuts in aid will have terrible consequences in the long term and what is happening in Gaza should of course have the superpower the United States down.
