Norway's 'cutting edge' technology can complement China
Aden-Jay Wood
Europe;Norway

Norway can offer China 'cutting-edge' technology across many fields as the two nations look to agree on a free-trade agreement. 

That's according to Tore Myhre, head of the International Department, Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise, who added that China's ability to scale up Norway's exports and industries could lead to a productive partnership. 

 

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Norway is hopeful it can agree on a trade deal with China by the end of this year as talks continue.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in Norway on Thursday morning to begin the third leg of his European tour, which includes visits to the Netherlands, Italy, France and Germany. 

During his visit, Wang will meet with Norway's Prime Minister Erna Solberg, as well as members from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs as both countries look to strengthen the relationship. 

 

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi is greeted by Norway's Prime Minister Erna Solberg, middle, and Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Soreide as he arrives for the third leg of his European tour. /Reuters

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi is greeted by Norway's Prime Minister Erna Solberg, middle, and Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Soreide as he arrives for the third leg of his European tour. /Reuters

 

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Myhre believes Norway has a lot to offer China, including its extensive fish farming production, in particular salmon. 

"Norway is a big producer of salmon and other fish farming products. We have a big potential to increase those sales. We know there is a great interest and need in China and the export is growing. And for consumers wanting clean fish from the Arctic, I think Norway has a lot to offer," he said.

China already has a research station in Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic, and is interested in the access that Norway could provide, according to Myhre. 

"We have great experience in operating in the Arctic. At Svalbard, we have great research facilities, where also China is present. There is great potential to improve and increase those activities and those collaborations in a mutual, beneficial way," he added.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a sense of unpredictability for many businesses. And Myhre believes now, more than ever, free-trade agreements with China, as well as with other countries, would provide some stability – something he says is "important," especially for businesses in small nations like Norway. 

Video editing: Terry Wilson