OSLO, Dec. 10 (Xinhua) -- Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store held separate bilateral meetings on Wednesday with the presidents of Ecuador, Panama, and Paraguay, discussing regional stability, trade, and international cooperation, the Norwegian government said in a press release.
During the meeting with President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador, President Jose Raul Mulino of Panama, and President Santiago Pena of Paraguay respectively, Store addressed the current political landscape in Latin America, with a specific focus on Venezuela.
"Everyone is, of course, concerned about the situation in Venezuela and the country's future," the Norwegian prime minister said. He emphasized that it is in the interest of all parties to find lasting solutions that respect international law.
The discussions also covered the importance of preserving the multilateral system, as well as cooperation on safe shipping, climate change, and environmental protection.
Economic ties were a central theme of the talks. Store highlighted Norway's long-standing tradition of cooperation with the region and discussed the free trade agreement with the Southern Common Market (Mercosur), which was signed in September this year.
The agreement will significantly improve market access for Norwegian exports to Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, with most tariffs on industrial and fisheries products to be removed once it enters into force. "This agreement will create opportunities for Norwegian businesses in the countries to which the agreement applies. It is important for Norwegian companies and Norwegian jobs," said Store. ■
