Thank you, Madam Chair,
Norway has aligned itself with the statement made by the European Union. Allow me to make a few remarks in my national capacity.
I would like to extend a warm welcome to Ambassador Jan Haukaas to the Permanent Council for the first time in this role. We wish to thank you and your team for this informative report.
Norway warmly welcomes Montenegro’s ambitious plan to close multiple EU accession chapters in 2025 and achieve full EU membership by 2028. In support of this goal, Norway has, through UNOPS, seconded experienced advisors from EU member states to Montenegro’s Ministry of European Affairs. Their expertise has contributed directly to reforms in key accession chapters, including Chapter 11 on Agriculture and Rural Development. Among other efforts, the advisers have supported the drafting of Montenegro’s implementation plan and negotiation positio —key prerequisites for closing the chapter. Once adopted by both the Government and the EU, these documents will mark a critical step toward fulfilling the conditions for closure, and toward Montenegro’s overall accession progress.
Madam Chair,
Norway is pleased to support the OSCE-led project enhancing Montenegro’s capacity to manage small arms, light weapons (SALW) and ammunition safely. With Norwegian funding, the Mission has helped strengthen the Armed Forces' ability to store and transport ammunition securely, including the handover of trucks and training in ammunition management, firefighting, and first aid. We especially commend the project for adapting to the increasing occurrence of forest fires in the region, caused by climate change. It is a stark reminder of the security risks stemming from the changing climate. Norway recognizes the
Mission’s efforts to improve safety and build long-term institutional capacity.
We look forward to continuing this cooperation and standing shoulder to shoulder with the government of Montenegro and the OSCE mission in promoting democratic resilience, rule of law, and European integration.
Lastly, the lack of an approved unified budget represents a severe challenge to OSCE. It restricts the Mission in Montenegro, as well as other field presences, in fulfilling their mandate. We urge participating States to reach consensus on a unified budget.
To conclude, I wish you, dear Jan, and your team the best of luck in advancing the work of the Mission. You can count on Norway’s unconditional support.
Thank you.