“For Norway, the Arctic is not a remote place. Ten percent of our population live here north of the Arctic Circle. Some of our most innovative industrial areas are located here. Norwegians have lived by and off the sea for centuries. We will continue to utilize ocean resources and to strike the balance between sustainable use and protection. To ensure sustainable economic development in the Arctic, based on the best available knowledge and science. And based on the highest environmental standards.

Photo credit: Asgeir Spange Brekke, Ministry of Defence/Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”