Remarks by President Donald Tusk after his meeting with Prime Minister of Norway Erna Solberg

Good afternoon. I am very pleased to welcome Prime Minister Erna Solberg today. In times like these, it is more important than ever to have a strong and close partner, like Norway. A partner who shares the same values, and with whom we can work together on common European challenges.

The European Union's relations with Norway are close and are continuing to evolve. The European Economic Area - of which Norway is a key member - has proved its value and strength over the past 25 years. It serves both the EU and Norway well, and will continue to do so.

Today, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of having a close dialogue in view of the upcoming Brexit talks. I reassured the Prime Minister that, as one of the EU's closest partners, we will have a close dialogue with Norway throughout the talks. That's what partners do.

We also discussed energy and climate cooperation. Our close cooperation is crucial for energy security and for the Energy Union objectives. And, above all, we are both determined to implement the Paris Agreement.

Let me make one comment as we wait for the confirmation from Washington regarding the US commitment to a better environment, including fighting climate change in line with the Paris Agreement. There are many ways in which nations can contribute to this fight, and they depend on national choices. No-one proves it better than Norway: how it is perfectly possible and rational to combine being an important supplier of gas and oil as well as being a front-runner in renewable energy. The Norwegian example should provide encouragement to our American friends, as the climate challenge we all face can only be addressed by common global action.

Today we confirmed our strong commitment to the transatlantic relationship, and to further strengthening security cooperation, including between NATO and the EU.

Prime Minister Solberg and I also discussed the conflict in Ukraine, and our relations with Russia. We remain firm and consistent in our approach towards Russia. We know who the victim is in this conflict, and we will continue working together to advance reforms and development in Ukraine. And we also cooperate when it comes to sanctions towards Russia.

And finally, let me make a general remark about Brexit. These negotiations are difficult enough as they are. If we start arguing before they even begin, they will become impossible. The stakes are too high to let our emotions get out of hand. Because at stake are the daily lives and interests of millions of people on both sides of the Channel. We must keep in mind that in order to succeed, today we need discretion, moderation, mutual respect and a maximum of good will. Thank you.