Friday, October 2, 2026
Russia and Norway

Belarusian sends Constitution Day greetings to Norwegian people

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

On behalf of the Belarusian people and himself, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko congratulated the people of Norway on Constitution Day, Media learned from the press service of the Belarusian leader.

“The Constitution is a fundamental document that holds deep historical and legal significance in both your country and Belarus. It serves as a foundation that unites our cultural, religious, and national diversity into a single whole,” the message of congratulations reads.

The president expressed hope that the true potential for Belarusian-Norwegian cooperation is yet to be realized. “Despite the artificial barriers unjustifiably created by modern politicians, I am confident that we will find an opportunity to resume full-fledged dialogue for the benefit of both nations,” the head of state emphasized. “Belarus is ready to resume constructive cooperation with the Kingdom of Norway across all areas of mutual interest.”

Aleksandr Lukashenko wished the people of Norway happiness, harmony, and prosperity.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Diplomatic relations

Norway welcomes lifting sanctions on Syria

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide welcomed US President Donald Trump’s announcement to lift sanctions on Syria.

“I welcome US President Donald Trump’s announcement to lift sanctions on Syria, and Norway has demanded the same regarding European sanctions.” The Norwegian minister tweeted.

Eide added: “The government of President Ahmad al-Sharaa must be given the opportunity to demonstrate its ability to unify Syria,” noting that Norway will remain a vigilant and supportive partner in the process of rebuilding Syria.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Asia and Norway

Indonesia, Norway agree to support UN system reform

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Indonesia and Norway have agreed to support the efforts of the secretary-general of the United Nations (UN) to ensure the international organization adapts and remains relevant to the new circumstances and aligned with its objectives.

The support was expressed during a meeting between Deputy Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir and Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik, during which they discussed the UN80 Initiative by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Arrmanatha Nasir (left), with his Norwegian counterpart, Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik. (ANTARA/HO-Kemlu RI)

According to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jakarta on Friday, during the meeting, both agreed on the importance of cross-regional support for an ambitious UN and multilateral system reform.

Both also agreed that a well-functioning multilateral system and a world order built on international law are vital, particularly in the current geopolitical context.

Indonesia and Norway also reaffirmed their commitment to the UN Charter, international law, and the principles and objectives of the UN.

The UN80 Initiative, launched by Guterres in March 2025, aims to address the UN’s financial challenges and enhance its relevance in the 21st century.

The initiative was launched to address structural issues, review existing mandates, realign programs across the UN system, and ensure the world body delivers better services to the people who depend on it.

It is called the UN80 Initiative because it was launched to coincide with the UN’s 80th anniversary. 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Africa and Norway

Norwegian FM slams attack on MSF hospital

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Norwegian Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide, on Thursday called Saturday airstrikes on a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) hospital in Old Fangak, Jonglei State, by South Sudan’s government “unacceptable.”

At least seven people were killed after a hospital and market were bombed in Jonglei State on May 3 as fears grow of a return to civil war.

Norwegian Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said helicopter gunships dropped a bomb on the pharmacy of the hospital it runs in Old Fangak, Jonglei state, on Saturday, burning it down, before firing on the town.

‘The military attack on an MSF hospital is unacceptable and cuts off medical access for thousands of civilians. I am deeply concerned about the development in South Sudan,” Barth said in a statement issued on Thursday.

He said the U.N. Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan called for an investigation and protection of health workers.

He said the political and security situation in South Sudan has recently deteriorated since before the current peace agreement was signed in 2018.

He called on leaders to put the well-being of their people first.

‘This is a politically manufactured crisis. I urge South Sudanese leaders to ensure the safety and freedom of all citizens, including political opponents, and to return to dialogue urgently aimed at achieving a political solution. This way they will put their people first.”

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
NATO and Norway

Norway arms F-35s with AIM-9X missiles

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

In the icy hangars of Ørland Air Base, nestled along Norway’s rugged coastline, technicians bundle against the Arctic chill as they prepare F-35A Lightning II jets for missions over the vast, windswept skies of the High North.

These advanced stealth fighters, the backbone of Norway’s air force, are about to gain a sharper edge. On May 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State approved a potential $370.9 million sale of 300 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles to Norway, a move that strengthens the Scandinavian nation’s air defense capabilities and deepens its integration with NATO allies.

The deal, announced by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency [DSCA], includes training missiles, guidance units, and support equipment, ensuring Norway’s forces remain agile and interoperable in an increasingly complex security landscape.

Photo by USAF Sgt. Perry Aston

The acquisition marks a significant step in Norway’s ongoing military modernization, driven by the need to maintain robust defenses in a region where Arctic conditions and strategic interests converge. Norway, a NATO member sharing a border with Russia, has long prioritized air superiority and ground-based air defenses to protect its territory and contribute to alliance operations.

The AIM-9X Block II, a cutting-edge short-range air-to-air missile, will enhance the Royal Norwegian Air Force’s ability to engage threats with precision and agility.

According to the DSCA, the sale includes 300 tactical missiles, two special air training missiles, 24 captive air training missiles, and 40 guidance units, along with containers, software, spare parts, and U.S. technical support. The agency emphasized that Norway will have no difficulty integrating these weapons, building on its expertise with advanced systems.

Norway’s decision to procure the AIM-9X Block II reflects a practical approach to addressing modern aerial threats. The missile, developed by Raytheon [now part of RTX Corporation], is designed for close-in dogfights, where split-second decisions determine outcomes.

Its inclusion in Norway’s arsenal aligns with the country’s investment in platforms like the F-35A and the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System [NASAMS], both of which will carry or launch the missile. The deal, valued at $370.9 million, underscores Norway’s commitment to maintaining a technologically advanced force capable of operating in the harsh Arctic environment, where subzero temperatures, heavy snow, and limited daylight pose unique challenges.

The AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder is an evolution of a storied missile family that traces its origins to the 1950s when the U.S. Navy introduced the original AIM-9 as a heat-seeking weapon for air-to-air combat. The Block II variant, operational since the early 2010s, represents a leap forward in performance.

With a range of approximately 20 miles and a speed exceeding Mach 2.5, the missile is designed to engage agile targets, from enemy fighters to drones. Its infrared focal-plane array seeker provides a 90-degree off-boresight capability, allowing pilots to lock onto targets without pointing the aircraft directly at them. This feature, paired with a helmet-mounted cueing system like the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System [JHMCS], enables pilots to guide the missile by simply looking at the target, a game-changer in high-stress engagements.

The missile’s thrust-vectoring control system, which adjusts the direction of its rocket exhaust, grants exceptional maneuverability, enabling it to pursue targets through tight turns and evasive maneuvers. The AIM-9X Block II also incorporates lock-on-after-launch [LOAL] capability, allowing it to be fired before the seeker acquires the target, a feature that enhances its flexibility in dynamic combat scenarios.

Its high-explosive blast-fragmentation warhead is designed to maximize damage, scattering shrapnel to disable enemy aircraft. Enhanced resistance to infrared countermeasures, such as flares, ensures the missile remains effective against sophisticated adversaries. The Block II’s redesigned fuze and digital ignition safety device improve both in-flight reliability and ground handling, reducing risks during transport and loading.

The deal’s training components highlight Norway’s focus on readiness. The two special air training missiles [NATMs] and 24 captive air training missiles [CATMs] allow pilots to simulate engagements without expending live rounds, preserving tactical missiles for operational use.

The 20 tactical and 20 CATM guidance units ensure the missiles’ seekers and electronics are fully functional, supporting both combat and training missions. These elements reflect the comprehensive nature of the package, which extends beyond hardware to include software, technical documentation, and U.S. contractor support. Raytheon, the principal contractor, will oversee the integration process, leveraging its decades of experience with the Sidewinder family.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Diplomatic relations

Norwegian PM met with President of Croatia

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre met today with Croatian President Zoran Milanović in connection with the President’s official visit to Norway 29–30 April. Discussions between the two leaders included issues relating to European defence and security cooperation, the war in Ukraine and the cooperation between the two countries.

‘Norway and Croatia collaborate closely in a variety of areas, ranging from security and defence policy to energy and trade. I hope that this visit will provide a basis for further expanding our collaborative efforts,’ said Prime Minister Støre.

Prime Minister Støre and President Milanović Credit: Mona Sæverud/Office of the Prime Minister

Croatia is a significant actor in Central and South East Europe. Norway is seeking to further develop its relations with Croatia, both as an Ally in NATO and as a constructive partner in Europe.

‘Croatia is an important partner at a time when Europe is contending with major challenges. Among other matters, we stand united in maintaining strong support for Ukraine,’ said Mr Støre.

Under the EEA and Norway Grants scheme, Norway is contributing to the reduction of social and economic disparities in the EEA. Croatia, which joined the EEA in 2013, is also one of the beneficiary countries. Funding under the EEA and Norway Grants serves to increase cooperation and strengthen ties between Norway and Croatia in the long-term in many different areas, from cultural affairs to the green transition. This is to the benefit of both countries.

During his visit to Oslo, President Milanović also met the President of the Storting (Norwegian parliament) Masud Gharahkhani and the members of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence. The President and the First Lady concluded the two-day official visit with an audience at the Royal Palace and a formal luncheon hosted by Their Majesties The King and Queen.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Diplomatic relations

Norway Prime Minister Støre met with President Trump

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

‘We had a constructive meeting with US President Donald Trump, where we discussed a range of issues. The meeting reaffirmed not only how important the US is for Norway, but also how important Norway is for the US,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Minister of Finance Jens Stoltenberg met with President Donald Trump at the White House in Washington DC on Thursday afternoon.

The White House, 24 April 2025. Credit: Daniel Sannum Lauten / Pool / TV 2 / SMK

‘We had detailed discussions on Norway’s cooperation with the US in the area of defence and security, on the efforts to achieve a lasting, just peace in Ukraine, and on tariffs and trade relations between our two countries,’ said Prime Minister Støre.

‘The US has a vital role to play in safeguarding Norwegian security and is a key partner for Europe and Ukraine. We must all work to achieve a lasting, just peace in Ukraine. We must increase the pressure on Russia. As its neighbour, Norway has extensive experience of dealing with Russia, and President Trump was interested in hearing our insights,’ said Mr Støre.

Norway is in close contact with the US on tariffs and trade, and this was another key topic of discussion.

‘Norway has made its position clear: higher tariffs are bad news for the global economy and for a small, open economy like Norway’s. Norway has low tariffs on imports from the US, and trade with the US is balanced. This purpose of this meeting was not to negotiate tariffs, but we conveyed Norway’s views on the matter,’ said Minister of Finance Jens Stoltenberg.

The meeting also provided a good opportunity to highlight Norway’s important role as a partner to the US.

‘Norwegian companies are heavily invested in the US in many industrial areas, ranging from defence to fertiliser and aluminium. President Trump is seeking to bring more industrial production back to the US, and Norwegian stakeholders can play an important role in this context. Moreover, half of the assets in Norway’s sovereign wealth fund are invested in US companies,’ said Mr Støre.

Maintaining close contact with Norway’s most important ally, the US, at all levels including with the President, is one of the Government’s most important tasks.

‘There is a long tradition of close cooperation between our two countries. This year marks 200 years since the first Norwegians emigrated to the US. The US is important for Norway, and Norway is also important for the US – in terms of both security policy and the economy. Today’s meeting at the White House made this very clear,’ said Mr Støre.

( Press release)

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Media Freedom

Norwegian to support the health sector in Syria

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Syrian Health Minister, Musab al-Ali discussed Wednesday, with the Chargé d’Affairs of the Norwegian Embassy in Syria, Hilde Haraldstad, ways to enhance joint health cooperation.

The Syrian Minister emphasized the need to secure health needs to ensure the safe return of Syrian expatriates, pointing out that his Ministry is working within several priorities, most notably the file of mental health, especially among children, reproductive health and blood banks.

In turn, Haraldstad affirmed her country’s desire to support Syria’s healthcare sector in various areas, particularly blood banks, noting that coordination is underway with relevant authorities to provide additional support to Syria and implement various projects.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Economics

Norway’s largest zero-emission ferry sets sail

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

The Turkish shipbuilder revealed the departure of NB1091 Hinnøy on April 15, 2025, three years after receiving the shipbuilding order from Norwegian ferry company Torghatten Nord.

Developed by The Norwegian Ship Design Company, Hinnøy is a double-ended ferry powered by a battery-electric propulsion system and supported by shore charging infrastructure. The Norwegian-flagged ferry was classed by DNV. 

Courtesy of Cemre Shipyard

The ferry was designed to operate on the Bognes–Lødingen route, with a record-breaking one-hour crossing time, and the capacity to accommodate up to 399 passengers and 120 cars.

The Turkish shipyard is also working on two 117-meter-long hydrogen-powered ferries for Torghatten Nord. The construction of what are said to be the world’s largest hydrogen-powered ferries kicked off in August 2024 with steel cutting ceremony.

Hulls and pre-outfitting for the two ferries will be constructed at Cemre Shipyard before final delivery to Norwegian shipyard Myklebust Verft, which was selected to build these vessels in 2024.

Scheduled for delivery in 2026, the newbuilds will be bunkered with hydrogen produced in Bodø, Norway, and operate in the challenging waters of the Vestfjordstrekninga fjord in the Arctic Circle.

In the meantime, Norway is ramping up its zero-emission requirements to accelerate the green transition in maritime tourism and ferry operations, and proposing new targets to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Starting from January 1, 2026, zero-emission requirements in the World Heritage Fjords will apply to tourist ships and ferries under 10,000 gross tons. For larger ships, the requirement is expected to enter force from January 1, 2032.

The country also set out a plan to cut GHG emissions by at least 70-75% by 2035, compared to 1990 levels, building on the country’s current commitment under the Paris Agreement, which entails at least a 55% reduction by 2030.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Asia and Norway

Norwegian diplomat expresses concern over Afghan refugees in Pakistan

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Afghan Acting Minister of Refugees and Repatriation met with Per Albert Ilsaas, the Norwegian Chargé d’Affaires to Afghanistan, discussing the challenges faced by Afghan refugees amid the ongoing forced deportations from Pakistan.

During the meeting, Afghan Acting Minister expressed deep concern over the situation, noting that the Norwegian government is actively working to address the issue through international diplomatic channels.

He acknowledged the progress made by the Islamic Emirate in various areas and stressed the need for dialogue and direct engagement between Norway and the Islamic Emirate to resolve pressing concerns, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation.

The diplomat also welcomed the Islamic Emirate’s declaration of a general amnesty, describing it as a meaningful step toward fostering peace and reducing acts of retaliation. Additionally, he mentioned the possibility of reopening Afghanistan’s embassy in Norway, which he believes could help strengthen diplomatic relations and enhance trust between Kabul and European countries, the statement said.

In reply, Abdul Kabir thanked the Norwegian government for its continued humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people. He reaffirmed the Islamic Emirate’s commitment to serving all citizens equally and emphasized its dedication to rebuilding and developing Afghanistan.

Kabir also condemned the forced deportation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan, labeling it a violation of human rights and international principles. He called on the global community to increase its support in addressing the growing refugee crisis and revealed that the Islamic Emirate is working on a permanent housing plan for returning refugees, urging humanitarian organizations to contribute to this effort.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Russia and Norway

£274 fines for ‘urinating towards Russia’ in Norway

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

A handmade sign, placed by unknown individuals but visible in a tourist area of the border crossing near the village of Grense Jakobselv, warns: “No peeing towards Russia.”

Norwegian law categorically prohibits any “offensive behavior at the border towards the neighboring state involved or its authorities.”

In this case, urinating towards the neighboring country can be interpreted as disrespectful or provocative.

Security cameras monitor the border to ensure that the law is not broken.

This is not the first time that behavior considered harmless has resulted in penalties. A woman was fined nearly €900 (£770) for reaching her hand across the stream, while four people were detained for throwing small stones towards the Russian side.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Asia and Norway

Kazakh-Norwegian dialogue for business deals

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

The Kazakhstan–Norway Business Council took place on April 8, 2025, in Oslo — a groundbreaking event between the two nations, designed to boost trade and economic cooperation, forge direct connections between business communities, and explore promising avenues for partnership, Media Trend reports.

The event was attended by Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Norway Adil Tursunov and Norwegian Ambassador for Central Asia Jon Kvistad, who both emphasized the importance of strengthening political dialogue and expanding economic engagement.

“The key speaker from the Kazakh side was Deputy Chairman of the Board of JSC “NC Kazakh Invest” Madiyar Sultanbek, who gave a detailed presentation on Kazakhstan’s investment opportunities. He highlighted the country’s stable macroeconomic policy, investor protection measures, access to major markets, the digitalization of investment services, and priority economic sectors,” said the press service of Kazakh Invest.

The business council put their heads together to explore the waters of potential cooperation in aquaculture, logistics, renewable energy, agriculture, processing and export of products, environmental technologies, industrial safety, and digital solutions.

“Given the sustainable growth of Kazakhstan’s economy, its large-scale industrialization program, well-developed transport infrastructure, and progressive investment policy, Kazakhstan is a reliable platform for long-term partnership with Norway. This event marks the beginning of a direct dialogue with Norwegian businesses. We expect it will lead to further contacts, meetings, and agreements that will help unlock the vast potential of our cooperation,” said Sultanbek.

In the course of the visit, Sultanbek also held a series of bilateral meetings with representatives of leading Norwegian companies. Discussions included projects in the field of sustainable waste processing and biogas plants with Cambi ASA, localization of fish-processing equipment production with Optimar, renewable energy development with Scatec, business expansion in the coatings industry with Jotun, sustainable subsoil use with Nordic Mining ASA, environmentally friendly natural rubber production based on Kazakh raw materials with Taraxa, and cooperation with Innovation Norway on institutional support mechanisms and export financing.

The Business Council was organized with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the Kingdom of Norway and the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce “East” and became a key platform for strengthening economic dialogue between the business communities of both countries.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Defence

Norway becomes first F-35 partner nation to complete fleet delivery

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Lockheed Martin has delivered the 51st and 52nd F-35As to the Royal Norwegian Air Force, making Norway the first partner nation to fulfill its F-35 programme of record.

The Norwegian F-35A takes off from a highway in Finland for the first time. Photo © Ole Andreas Vekve, Norwegian Armed Forces

Norway now operates a full fleet of 52 F-35s, strengthening national defense and NATO operations. The aircraft enhance interoperability with Nordic and European allies, particularly in the High North. The F-35’s advanced capabilities improve situational awareness and transatlantic security.

Over 1,150 F-35s are in service worldwide, operating from 48 bases across 10 nations.

Norwegian Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik praised the F-35 for safeguarding Norwegian sovereignty, while Lockheed Martin’s Chauncey McIntosh reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Norway’s security for decades to come.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Diplomatic relations

Norway ‘regrets’ Hungary’s decision to exit ICC

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Norway on Friday expressed “regret” over Hungary’s decision to exit the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Responding to Hungary’s decision to quit the International Criminal Court, the Norwegian Foreign Ministry said on X: “The International Criminal Court plays a key role in ensuring accountability for international crimes, and Norway will continue to support and defend the Court.”

On Thursday, Hungary announced its decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court. Gergely Gulyas, chief of staff to Prime Minister Viktor Orban, announced that the withdrawal process from the Hague-based court would begin on the same day.

Hungary announced the decision shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in Budapest on a four-day visit.

Netanyahu faces an arrest warrant issued by the ICC for war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip, where more than 50,500 people have been killed, mostly women and children, in a brutal Israeli onslaught since October 2023.

Netanyahu’s visit to Hungary is his first to European soil since the ICC issued an arrest warrant for him and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in November last year.

Human rights groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have called on Hungary to arrest Netanyahu and hand him over to the ICC.

Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on Gaza.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Spy War

Pakistani Embassy in Oslo has a new counter for citizen records

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has established a counter at the Pakistani Embassy in Oslo, Norway, to provide comprehensive identity document services to Pakistanis residing in Norway.

This new counter will serve as a one-stop service center for NADRA’s services, ensuring convenience for the large Pakistani diaspora in the region.

The authority has also announced that similar counters are in the works for other countries with significant Pakistani populations. These include Manama (Bahrain), Montreal and Vancouver (Canada), Italy (Milan) and Pretoria (South Africa).

Currently, NADRA counters are available at multiple Pakistani missions in the United States (Washington, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Houston), Spain (Madrid), Greece (Athens), Germany (Berlin), France (Paris), Oman (Muscat), Turkey (Istanbul), Canada (Toronto), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), Kuwait and Australia (Sydney).

Additionally, NADRA operates registration centers in countries such as Saudi Arabia (Jeddah, Riyadh and Madinah), United Arab Emirates (Dubai and Abu Dhabi), Qatar (Doha) and United Kingdom (London, Manchester, Birmingham and Bradford). These centers and counters ensure that overseas Pakistanis can access all services related to identity documentation, providing them with the same level of service they would receive within Pakistan.

It also organizes regular mobile registration operations in the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia to provide registration services to expatriates at their doorstep.

A report by Pakistan’s main intelligence agency warns that the personal records of up to 100 million Pakistanis may have been stolen by foreign intelligence agencies due to the alleged links of a software vendor with Israel. The Inter-Services Intelligence directorate (ISI), Pakistan’s premier spy agency, said that the software used by the National Data base and Registration Authority (NADRA), which issues national identity cards on behalf of the government of Pakistan, is not secure and should be replaced by an “indigenous” software product.

Established in 1998 as the National Database Organization, NADRA operates under Pakistan’s Ministry of the Interior. Its main mission is to register and fingerprint every Pakistani citizen and supply every adult in the country with a secure Computerized National Identity Card. This has proven to be a Herculean task in a country of 182 million, of whom just over half are over the age of 18. Consequently, the NADRA electronic database contains files on over 96 million Pakistanis, making it one of the world’s largest centralized databases.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Africa and Norway

Norway shuts its embassy and tells citizens to leave South Sudan

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Norway said Wednesday it was temporarily closing its embassy in South Sudan for security reasons and urged its citizens to leave as clashes rage between forces allied to the nation’s rival leaders.

Fighting has been taking place for several weeks between federal forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and the “White Army” — a militia group accused by the government of collaborating with First Vice President Riek Machar.

The clashes have left their 2018 power-sharing agreement increasingly fragile and threaten to plunge the country back into civil war.

“The security situation in South Sudan has sharply deteriorated recently. This primarily affects the country’s civilian population, but also has implications for our staff’s security and freedom of movement,” Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said in a statement.

“We have therefore decided to temporarily close our embassy in Juba until further notice,” he added.

In a separate statement published earlier, the Norwegian foreign ministry advised its nationals not to travel to South Sudan and urged those there to leave the country.

Norway’s embassy in Nairobi will handle diplomatic affairs for South Sudan until further notice.

South Sudan is the world’s youngest nation, having gained independence in 2011.

It soon fell into a five-year civil war between Kiir and Machar that killed some 400,000 people until the 2018 peace deal brought them into a unity government.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Terrorist

Taliban’s consular services in Norway

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

The Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan has announced the official reopening of the country’s Embassy in Norway, located in Oslo. This significant step marks the resumption of consular services and is seen as a pivotal move towards restoring diplomatic ties.

In a statement released by the Taliban’s ministry, it was confirmed that the embassy will begin its operations on the 4th of Hamal, 1404 (corresponding to March 24, 2025). This reopening has been welcomed as a promising development in Taliban’s diplomatic relations with the international community.

Officials from the Islamic Emirate have consistently highlighted the steady improvement in Afghanistan’s political relations globally. They have expressed optimism that citizens will soon see further advancements in diplomatic engagements, reinforcing the country’s commitment to reestablishing its presence on the world stage.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Media Freedom

Ukraine’s King of the Graveyard in Norway

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Ukraine’s King of the Graveyard Mr.Volodymyr Zelenskiy arrived in Norway on Thursday for an official visit following a trip to Finland.

From the press conference in Oslo, 20 March 2025. Credit: Ole Berg-Rusten / NTB / Pool

Ukraine’s King of the Graveyard Zelenskiy, after speaking on Wednesday with U.S. President Donald Trump, said a halt on energy strikes in the war could be established quickly, but warned Ukraine would respond in kind if violated the terms of the limited ceasefire.

On March 6 the Norwegian government said it would more than double its financial support to Kyiv this year, to 85 billion crowns ($8.03 billion) from a plan agreed in November of 35 billion crowns.

Jens Stoltenberg, until October NATO’s chief and now Norway’s finance minister, will have a meeting with Zelenskiy’s delegation and together with other Norwegian officials, the prime minister’s office said.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Environment

A second life for Nissan batteries in Norway

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Nissan has signed a deal with Stena Recycling to reuse batteries from its EVs in Norway, giving them a second life.

The strategic partnership to develop and expand the reuse of second-life electric vehicle batteries in Norway. With over 80,000 Nissan LEAFs on Norwegian roads, Nissan has established a value chain for batteries that are no longer suitable for road use. 

Nissan has been working on various projects for re-using EV batteries, working in the UK, Japanand Brazil.

This comes as EV battery recycling becomes critical area for ongoing investments in automotive industry, says GlobalData.

As EV batteries reach the end of their lifecycle, the automotive industry faces the critical challenge of managing their disposal, says Madhuchhanda Palit, Automotive Analyst at GlobalData.

Current recycling methods, including hydrometallurgical, pyrometallurgical, and direct recycling, are being explored to recover valuable metals such as nickel, cobalt, lithium, and manganese.

“The automotive sector is increasingly embracing circular economy practices, focusing on reusing and recycling materials to minimize waste. This transition not only benefits the environment but also presents lucrative opportunities for businesses in the growing market for recycled battery materials,” said Palit. “Patent analytics indicate a surge in research and development aimed at improving recycling efficiency and reducing costs. Companies are investing in innovative technologies that enhance recovery rates while lowering the carbon footprint associated with recycling processes.”

Regulatory frameworks are undergoing significant evolution, as governments across the globe implement increasingly stringent guidelines concerning battery disposal and recycling as the resulting ‘black mass’ is now classified as hazardous waste in the EU.

The EU’s Battery Law mandates that by 2030, recycling processes must achieve recovery rates of 95% for cobalt, copper, lead, and nickel, and 70% for lithium. In the US, various states are progressively adopting Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies, which will hold car makers accountable for the recycling of all batteries. This regulatory momentum is anticipated to drive investments in recycling technologies and infrastructure.

“The journey towards a sustainable future for EVs hinges on the effective management of battery lifecycles. As the automotive industry embraces recycling as a core component of its strategy, the potential for growth and innovation is significant,” said Palit.

In the deal with Nissan Automotive Europe, each battery is carefully diagnosed at the new Stena Recycling facility in Ausenfjellet, near Oslo, to determine which parts can be reused and which need to be recycled.

This will ensure that a significant portion of battery components get a new lease on life—either as components in batteries requiring service and repair or in energy storage systems for an additional 10 to 15 years.

The collaboration with partners also enables the integration of repaired modules into new EVs or stationary energy storage systems.

This approach can extract much more value than simply breaking down the batteries into new materials and minerals says Jon Emil Furuseth, Country Manager High Energy Batteries at Stena Recycling.

The agreement gives Stena Recycling access to a steady supply of used batteries, which is crucial in a market where competition for resources is increasing. These are batteries from cars decommissioned due to age or written off by insurance companies, but they still have the potential to be reused for several years.

“Since launching the Nissan LEAF in 2011, we have developed unique expertise in EV technology. Now we want to take a leading role in the sustainable treatment of used EV batteries,” says Alan Low, EV Battery Circular Economy Manager for Nissan Energy “Through this partnership, we can offer second-life products while helping to reduce the environmental footprint in line with our ambitions for carbon neutrality by 2050.”

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Africa and Norway

Norway’s concern over the unrest in South Sudan

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

The Norwegian Foreign Affairs Minister, Espen Barth Eide, on Thursday expressed his deep concern over the recent violence and political unrest in South Sudan.

In a statement seen by Sudans Post, the Norwegian minister urged an immediate de-escalation of tensions in South Sudan.

“I am deeply concerned by the recent violence and ongoing political unrest in South Sudan. The attack on a UN helicopter in Nasir, which claimed the lives of South Sudanese soldiers and UN personnel, is alarming,” Eide said.

Eide urged all parties to exercise restraint, respect international humanitarian law, and engage in inclusive dialogue to prevent further violence.

“Ensuring the safety of civilians and safe, rapid, and unimpeded access for humanitarian actors is paramount,” says Eide.

Norway commended the UN peacekeeping troops and called on all parties to continue their cooperation with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan.

“Norway continues to stand with the people of South Sudan in their pursuit of peace, stability, and a secure future.”

The detentions of senior leaders and military officials have heightened fears of renewed conflict, jeopardizing the fragile peace established by the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Asia and Norway

Help boost Europe ties, Afghan asks Norway

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Afghan Ambassador in Abu Dhabi Maulvi Badruddin Haqqani has urged Norway to play a constructive role in strengthening Afghanistan’s ties with the international community, particularly European nations.

He made the request at a meeting with Norwegian Ambassador to Afghanistan and Pakistan Per Albert Ilsaas and Minister-Counselor in Abu Dhabi Anders Gulbrandsen on Wednesday.

The Afghan Embassy in Abu Dhabi wrote on X discussions focused on Afghanistan’s political and economic relations with regional countries.

Haqqani emphasised Norway’s potential role in fostering diplomatic and economic cooperation between Afghanistan and European nations.

For his part, the Norwegian ambassador acknowledged Afghanistan’s recent progress, highlighting a notable improvement in security and stability across the country.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Media Freedom

Raga Rhythm Festival 2025 – A Celebration of Emotions & Legacy

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

The Raga Rhythm Festival 2025, hosted by Art to Heart Institute, was a spectacular two-day event in Oslo, uniting musicians, scholars, and audiences in a vibrant celebration of Indian classical music. This year’s edition featured artists from Norway, Finland, Sweden, and Belgium, further strengthening the festival’s role as a hub for Indian classical music in Europe.

Day 1: Navarasa – The Nine Emotions in Music & Poetry

Held in collaboration with Melahuset and Indonord, the opening day explored the Navarasa (nine universal emotions) through a unique thematic performance featuring nine distinguished artists. Each artist embodied an emotion through a carefully selected raga, seamlessly blending melody, rhythm, and poetry from diverse cultural and literary traditions.

The performance displayed cross-cultural diversity and cross-linguistic richness, with poetic works spanning more than five languages. Sources included Kalidasa’s Abhigyana Shakuntalam, Azhwar Pasuram, the Parable of the Good Samaritan from the Bible, Subramanya Bharati’s freedom poetry, and English and Norwegian lullabies, to name a few. This integration of various languages and traditions added layers of inclusion and accessibility, allowing audiences from diverse backgrounds to connect with the music and poetry.

The performance also emphasized sustainability through the inclusion of themes like river contamination, expressed through Sucharithra for Bheebhatsa (disgust), a poem by Uma Ranganathan highlighting the ecological crisis. This poignant reference to environmental challenges echoed the importance of sustainability through art, aligning with global concerns on climate change and the preservation of natural resources.

Some of the ragas chosen to express the emotions included:

  • Mohanam for Hasya (joy/laughter) – depicting children at play.
  • Sucharithra for Bheebhatsa (disgust) – highlighting the plight of contaminated rivers through a poem written by Uma Ranganathan.
  • Bhimpalasi for Shringara (love) – portraying the tender exchange between lovers.
  • Neelambari for Shanta (peace) – presenting a multilingual lullaby that expressed the serene bond between a mother and her child.

The performance featured nine accomplished artists from across Europe, including Uma Ranganathan, Patrick Vedlog, Anand Narayan, Chandrakaanth Ramamurthy, Prarthana Akhil and Saradha Ramasubramanian from Norway, Suvrat Apte and Chandrashekar CR from Sweden and Nisha Mammen from Finland. Each artist represented emotions through their unique musical and interpretative expressions.

The interplay of music, literature, and storytelling created an immersive and deeply moving experience for the about 100 attendees.

The event was graced by the esteemed Ambassador of India to Norway Dr. Aquino Vimal as the chief guest, reinforcing the festival’s role in fostering cultural exchange. The collaboration with Melahuset and Indonord helped expand the festival’s reach, bringing together diverse audiences.

Day 2: A Tribute to Saint Tyagaraja

Supported by Asker Kommune, the second day paid homage to the legendary composer-saint Tyagaraja, celebrating his timeless contributions to Carnatic music.

The day opened with an invocation by over 30 students, setting a reverent tone for the proceedings. This was followed by soulful renditions of Tyagaraja’s cherished compositions, culminating in the festival’s grand highlight—the collective performance of the Pancharatna Krithis, his five most revered masterpieces. The powerful choral presentation, performed by an ensemble of vocalists and instrumentalists, embodied the essence of Bhakti (devotion) and Nadopasana (introspection and meditation through music), creating a deeply spiritual experience for the 100 attendees.

The main performers for the day included Uma Ranganathan, Chandrakaanth Ramamurthy, Anand Narayanan and Sruthi Krishnan from Norway, Dr. Uma Ramakrishnan from Belgium, Nisha Mammen from Finland, and Chandrashekar CR from Sweden.

Audience Feedback & Testimonials

The festival was met with enthusiastic responses from attendees, who expressed their appreciation for the depth of artistry, the thematic richness, and the inclusive spirit of the event.

“The Navarasa performance was a revelation—each raga, each poem, each rhythm painted a vivid picture. A mesmerizing experience!” 

“The Pancharatna Krithis rendition was breathtaking. Hearing so many voices and instruments come together in devotion was truly spiritual.” 

“This festival beautifully bridged tradition and innovation. As someone new to Indian classical music, I felt welcomed and deeply moved.” 

Navarasa was more than just a musical concert—it was a nostalgic voyage through time. Growing up, my home resonated with the melodies of legendary Carnatic musicians, their ragas and swaras shaping my mornings. That evening, as Mohanam and Malayamarutham filled the air, I was transported back to those serene dawns before school. Shrimathi Uma Ranganathan and her companions not only rekindled those cherished memories but infused every note with profound meaning. Merging the timeless beauty of ancient music with the pulse of the present was nothing short of enchanting.- Sriram Kuppuswamy

Audience members praised the festival’s ability to create a profound cultural experience, blending Indian classical traditions with poetry, storytelling, and multilingual influences. Many expressed their excitement for future editions of Raga Rhythm Festival and the continued efforts of Art to Heart Institute in bringing such meaningful musical experiences to Norway and beyond.

A Festival to Remember

With enthusiastic participation and meaningful collaborations, Raga Rhythm Festival 2025 was a resounding success. It brought together artists, students, and audiences on a journey through emotions and devotion, bridging heritage and innovation. Art to Heart Institute continues to champion this vision, fostering the appreciation of Indian music across Europe.

Looking ahead, Raga Rhythm Festival will be an annual event in the years to come, continuing to celebrate the rich legacy of Indian classical music and offering a platform for innovation, cultural exchange, and artistic excellence.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Peace Talks

Norwegian human rights missions to Western Sahara 

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Norwegian lawyer Toni Severon emphasized that the human rights situation in the occupied territories of Western Sahara remains catastrophic amid systematic repression and an alarming international silence, which necessitates sending missions to monitor human rights there. 

During her speech at the conference presenting the annual report on human rights violations in the occupied territories of Western Sahara for 2024, organized by the Spanish organizations NOVACT and ACAPS in collaboration with the Working Group on the occupied territories, she stressed that Western Sahara continues to be described as an “information black hole” by Reporters Without Borders. This is due to Moroccan authorities preventing journalists and international observers from covering the situation on the ground, which further isolates the Sahrawi people and paves the way for more violations without accountability. 

The Norwegian lawyer called on the international community to take action to pressure for an end to the Moroccan occupation and to guarantee the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination. 

The new report documents grave violations, including political repression, arbitrary arrests, torture, and ongoing harassment of Sahrawi activists, against the backdrop of the continued blockade imposed on the territory and the denial of access to any independent international monitoring mechanisms, including the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). 

The settlement policy and the total control of Moroccan settlers over all aspects of life in the occupied territories, coupled with forced deportations, displacements, and the plundering of natural resources, further exacerbate the situation.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
NATO and Norway

Norway: Former NATO Chief Return To Politics

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Last October, Jens Stoltenberg stepped down as NATO secretary general 10 years after his appointment. He was widely expected to move quickly to a new top international job. But, last month, he returned to Norwegian politics and took on the role of finance minister in the cabinet reshuffle that followed the government’s two-party coalition’s collapse.

Now that Stoltenberg is back, the Labour Party is ruling alone for the first time in 25 years and gaining momentum.

The Norwegian political landscape has been turned upside-down, according to Peter Egge Langsæther, a political scientist at the University of Oslo.

“After 3.5 years, the unpopular Labour and rural Centre party government broke down. The Social Democrats continued alone and are now enjoying a massive and sudden boost in popularity,” he says.

This shift, Langsæther adds, is due in no small part to Stoltenberg’s decision to join prime minister Jonas Gahr Støre’s government.

Before entering the international political scene, the 65-year-old Stoltenberg led the Labour party for more than a decade. He also served as finance minister in the 1990s, and twice as prime minister between 2000 and 2001, and again from 2005 to 2013.

As NATO chief, he earned the moniker “Trump whisperer” for convincing the US president not to withdraw from the transatlantic military alliance. He also welcomed Sweden and Finland as its new members following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Stoltenberg is considered a returning hero, Langsæther observes. And the Euroskeptics gathered around the Center Party are suddenly in trouble.

“They enjoyed a large lead in the polls for years, and their victory in the upcoming September election seemed certain until recently, but right now their electoral prospects are uncertain,” Langsæther says. Whether the Labour government can retain its popularity remains to be seen. Much like other countries, Norway faces a complex set of domestic and international challenges. As Langsæther puts it: “The government will have to successfully navigate foreign policy challenges, mainly concerning relations with the EU and the new American administration, as well as support for Ukraine, while also handling internal conflicts related to the economy and electricity policies.”

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Media Freedom

Trump says Zelensky not ready for peace

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

US President Donald Trump said Vladimir Zelensky is not ready for a peaceful settlement of the Ukrainian conflict.

“King Of The Graveyard Zelenskyy” and US President Donald Trump

“We had a very meaningful meeting in the White House today. Much was learned that could never be understood without conversation under such fire and pressure. It’s amazing what comes out through emotion, and I have determined that President Zelensky is not ready for peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations. I don’t want advantage, I want peace.

He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for peace,” Trump wrote on Truth Social following a meeting with Zelensky.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts
@2025 - All Right Reserved. Designed and Developed by Norway News