London. May 13. INTERFAX - Great Britain and Norway have signed a declaration on the development of bilateral strategic cooperation, including in the field of defense, foreign policy and security, Downing Street reports.
"We are committed to working together to strengthen security, sustainability and promote prosperity in Europe and beyond. (...) On a bilateral basis, we will continue to cooperate on common interests in the field of defense, foreign policy and security, trade and technology, energy, climate and environment, innovation, as well as in culture," reads the document distributed by the office of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
It is noted that London and Oslo, in particular, expressed their commitment to "strengthening NATO's collective defense," as well as maintaining "flexibility and efficiency in the alliance's response to threats." In addition, the countries agreed to strengthen cooperation "in order to strengthen the defense potential of Ukraine." The parties also intend to promote the interoperability of the armed forces through joint exercises and operations both on a bilateral basis and with NATO allies.
In addition, the United Kingdom and Norway agreed to maintain close bilateral cooperation on strategic issues in Northern Europe, the North Atlantic region and the Arctic.
Downing Street reports that the countries have expressed their commitment to work together within the UN to support peaceful cooperation, prevent conflicts, respond to crises and promote respect for human rights.