The Parliament debate on the ratification never became a real debate.
Anyone looking for disagreements, or political conflicts, had entered the wrong door if they were in the Storting, downtown Oslo today.
The delimitation treaty was considered by the Parliament’s Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence. Spokesman for the case, Ivar Kristiansen – representing the Conservative party from Nordland County – proudly presented the case for the plenum:
- It is the committee’s opinion that the agreement will be for the benefit of both nations and contribute to further stability in the area of the Barents Sea - Arctic Ocean and between nations, Norway and Russia, Kristiansen said in his opening speech.
Representatives from all political parties with seats in the Parliament praised the deal with Russia. It is long time since there have been a more common understanding among all political parties in a foreign policy case in Norway.
The debate was over in just one hour. Not one single critical word against the agreement was voiced.
Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre is highly satisfied with the discussion in the parliament.
- The Parliament’s debate on the delimitation deal confirms that there is a balanced agreement that will further strengthen the Norwegian-Russian cooperation, says Jonas Gahr Støre.
Støre signed the delimitation agreement with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Murmansk last October.
- We now await the ratification in the Russian Duma. That will complete the process, and once and for all clarify the maritime borders between Norway and Russia in the Barents Sea and Arctic Oceans, says Støre.
Read also: Delimitation agreement no threat to Russian fishermen
The ratification in the Russian Duma is believed to come before spring. Prime Minster Vladimir Putin, normally a foot ahead of decisions in the Duma, has already praised the deal.
- This deal will of course strengthen the spirit of trust in the Arctic region, create additional opportunities for the development of joint economic projects, for a responsible and environmentally safe development of the natural riches of the Arctic, Putin said at the government session held on 20 January.
