Mr. Chair,
Norway fully aligns with the statement made by the United Kingdom and the joint statement delivered by Poland. I would still like to make some additional short remarks in my national capacity. Let me first reinforce the critique raised against the Russian Federation’s use of falsified documents in this Forum. This is a blatant breach of diplomatic etiquette. It signals a lack of respect for the Forum or even a deliberate attempt to deceive it. This is unacceptable and further undermines the credibility of all statements made by the Russian Federation, a credibility that is already at a low point after repeatedly misuse of terms and characteristics in this Forum. We request restorative action from the Russian Federation.
Mr. Chair,
The Norwegian Parliament recently agreed to increase funding to Ukraine for the current year from 35 billion NOK to 85 billion NOK. In its entirety, the new funding will be used for international initiatives and procurements from the Ukrainian defense industry.
We commend the Ukrainian people’s courage in face of the hardship they are facing. Despite the immense human suffering and destruction to which they are exposed, the Ukrainian people continue to stand firm under the strong leadership of President Zelensky. Last week, President Zelensky visited Oslo and met with senior Norwegian officials including the Prime Minister. They discussed the current needs of Ukraine and how increased support from Norway, as quickly as possible, can be translated into military equipment that the future of both Ukraine and Europe is so dependent on. Today Foreign Minister Eide and Minister for Labour and Social Inclusion, Brenna, are in Kyiv for further consultations.
Norway will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes. We must reach a peace based on the very principles we once agreed upon in this organization; sovereignty, freedom, and the rule of law.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.