Norway’s new finance minister vows to protect national goods from trade barriers

Norway’s newly appointed Finance Minister, Jens Stoltenberg, has committed to doing everything possible to prevent tariffs from being imposed on Norwegian goods.

“Norway will do everything it can to prevent the introduction of trade restrictions on Norwegian goods. If this (imposing duties) happens, we must work closely with those closest to us, at least the EU,” Stoltenberg said during a press conference after his appointment, Caliber.Az reports via international media outlets.

Stoltenberg, who took office on February 4 as part of a cabinet reshuffle, emphasized the importance of collaboration with the European Union should trade restrictions be introduced, acknowledging that working together with close partners would be key in tackling the potential impact of tariffs.

His appointment comes at a time when Norway faces the possibility of a transatlantic trade war, adding pressure to the country’s already challenging economic climate. Stoltenberg, who previously served as NATO Secretary General from 2014 to 2024, brings years of experience in diplomacy and negotiation to his new role as finance minister.

"This team is ready to lead Norway in demanding times," Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre stated after the new cabinet met King Harald. The veteran politician’s new role is seen as a way to give the struggling Labour government a boost in opinion polls ahead of the parliamentary elections in September.

Stoltenberg served as prime minister of Norway from 2000-2001 and again from 2005-2013. His decade-long tenure as NATO’s chief was marked by significant global events, including Russia’s annexation of Crimea, the rise and fall of ISIS, the withdrawal from Afghanistan, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Under his leadership, NATO expanded its military capabilities and membership, adapting to the changing landscape of international security threats.

By Tamilla Hasanova