The U.S. and Norway – NATO Allies and Global Partners

Norway

From the White House:  President Obama hosted Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg for a meeting in the Oval Office on October 20.   The visit underscored the close ties between the United States and Norway, which are grounded in our common heritage, values, ideals and interests.  The leaders renewed their commitments in the following areas:

Defense and Security Cooperation:  As NATO allies, the United States and Norway are committed to each other’s defense and partner in critical crisis areas around the world.

  • Libya:  Norway was one of the first allies to step up and deploy fighter aircraft as part of the NATO civilian protection mission in Libya.  Six Norwegian F-16s played an important role during the first months of the mission and contributed substantially to its ultimate success. 
  • Afghanistan:  Norway is a key contributor to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), providing more than 500 troops and police trainers, leading a Provincial Reconstruction Team, and providing approximately $120 million annually in development assistance.  It is also making significant contributions to the Afghan National Army Trust Fund and the Law and Order Trust Fund, which are critical to Afghanistan transition efforts. 
  • Bilateral Defense Cooperation:  The U.S. and Norwegian militaries enjoy a high level of cooperation and interoperability.  Approximately 500 Norwegian military personnel, including pilots, train in the United States annually and about 175 active military sales cases are in process.  Norway has selected the Joint Strike Fighter F-35 as its next generation supersonic fighter aircraft, and will be taking delivery of four JSF F-35 training aircraft in 2016. . . .

Cultural Ties:  Nearly five million Americans claim Norwegian ancestry, almost equal to Norway’s own population.  Our cultural relations are rich and dynamic, and both countries are working to encourage greater educational exchange opportunities.

Excerpts from Fact Sheet: The United States and Norway – NATO Allies and Global Partners.  (photo: Reuters)

United States and Canada

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