Norway State Secretary/Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik signalled a push for a “modern, forward-looking” partnership with Sri Lanka, emphasising stronger trade, maritime cooperation, and green energy collaboration.
In an exclusive interview with the Daily FT during his two-day official visit, Kravik said the visit was aimed at setting new priorities and revitalising political engagement after several years without a high-level Norwegian delegation.
“Last year, we celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Norway and Sri Lanka. It is important to commemorate that milestone and use it as a springboard to look ahead, building on what we have achieved and setting new priorities for the relationship,” he said.
He assured that Norway would continue development cooperation through agencies such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP), while supporting civil society initiatives on labour rights, human rights, and judicial standards.
Noting that Sri Lanka is no longer in conflict, Kravik acknowledged that post-war reconciliation challenges still remain. He said discussions with Tamil representatives and talks with Government leaders would focus on strengthening minority rights, rule of law, and judicial safeguards.
Reaffirming Norway’s human rights-centred foreign policy, Kravik underscored the importance of multilateral institutions and international law, arguing that smaller nations must “lean in” to strengthen global systems amid growing geopolitical polarisation.
The Deputy Minister also said beyond governance, Norway is seeking expanded economic engagement. “Attracting Norwegian capital would depend on predictability, adherence to rule of law and respect for human rights,” he said, adding that these factors were closely linked to sustainable economic growth.
Maritime industries were highlighted as a priority sector, with scope for collaboration in fisheries management and combating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing through improved monitoring systems and legal frameworks.
In addition, energy cooperation, particularly in renewable and sustainable solutions, was also identified as a major opportunity, alongside technology, research, and university partnerships.
Despite the brief nature of the visit, Kravik expressed optimism about deepening ties, noting the presence of a valued Sri Lankan diaspora in Norway and “significant potential” for expanded collaboration in the years ahead.