Norway lifts Myanmar restrictions

The Department of Foreign Affairs has announced that Norway is lifting its trade restrictions against Myanmar (Burma), in response to the progress being made in Myanmar. (Photo: Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre)

The Government has decided that it will no longer urge Norwegian companies to refrain from trade and investment in Myanmar. This was an exclusively Norwegian policy.

However, Norway continues to align itself with the EU sanction regime, which will be considered more closely in the course of the spring.

“Many political prisoners have now been released and important steps have been taken towards reconciliation and democracy. The change in Norwegian policy is a signal to the Government of Myanmar that reform pays,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

“The country needs trade and investment in order to create jobs, promote development and reduce poverty. Better standards of living will also help to propel further democratisation. Norway will therefore no longer urge Norwegians not to trade with or invest in Myanmar,” said Mr Støre.

Foreign Minister Støre will visit Myanmar in the near future, and this will provide an opportunity to discuss the way forward.

(NRK/Press release)

Sunday, 15 January 2012 08:01

Written by Rolleiv Solholm

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