“The governing parties will invite a separate process between the parliamentary leaders in the Storting on the Nansen program and Norway‘s support for Ukraine going forward. A possible agreement can then become part of the financial proposal”, says a letter from the parties’ parliamentary leaders, Rigmor Aasrud (Ap) and Marit Arnstad (Sp), to the other parliamentary leaders in the Storting.
It writes Aftenposten.
Wanted the support completely out of the negotiations
Earlier in the week, Venstre leader Guri Melby and fiscal policy spokesman Sveinung Rotevatn proposed withdrawing Ukraine aid from the ordinary budget negotiations between the government and the Swedish Socialist Party, so that all parties could have their say. This was supported by the Conservative Party, SV and MDG on the same day.
Now comes the government parties’ answer.
“Now, through the state budget for 2025, the government has put forward its proposal. It is therefore orderly and necessary that the other parties in the Storting first present their proposals for Ukraine support in their alternative budgets, before the parliamentary leaders then continue the conversation about Norway’s support for Ukraine in the coming years,” the letter continues.
Melby unhappy
Melby is not satisfied with what she reads in the government party’s letter.
– Our wish is for the parties to sit down now and agree on the framework for Ukraine support, not a long bidding war in alternative budgets between the parties. We don’t have enough time and have to send a signal now, I don’t feel that the government plans to do that, she says to NTB.
She believes Ap is now opening up to the party political game about Ukraine that they have wanted to avoid. The Liberal leader also points out that the government and SV have not agreed on the budget within the deadline for the nomination earlier in the period. Melby fears that the process could take weeks.
– There is no reason to wait or decline our invitation, let’s sit down in the Storting and agree on support for Ukraine.
#government #opens #discussions #Ukraine #aid
**Interview with Rigmor Aasrud, Parliamentary Leader (Ap)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Rigmor. Norway recently announced a significant financial contribution of $128 million to support Ukraine’s air defense. Can you share the rationale behind this decision?
**Rigmor Aasrud:** Thank you for having me. The decision to support Ukraine in this manner stems from our commitment to international peace and security. In light of the ongoing conflict, it’s crucial that we help our allies strengthen their defense capabilities. Ukraine has faced tremendous challenges, and enhancing their air defense is a vital part of ensuring their sovereignty.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned a separate process involving the parliamentary leaders regarding the Nansen program and future support for Ukraine. Can you elaborate on what that process entails?
**Rigmor Aasrud:** Certainly. The governing parties believe it’s important to have a dedicated dialogue on how Norway can best assist Ukraine moving forward. This process will involve discussions on the Nansen program and how we can align that with our budget proposals. Our goal is to ensure that any agreement reached is comprehensive and reflective of both humanitarian and military needs.
**Interviewer:** With this pledge, how do you foresee Norway’s role evolving in the context of international support for Ukraine?
**Rigmor Aasrud:** Norway aims to be a reliable partner in the international community’s efforts to support Ukraine. Our pledge is just one piece of the puzzle. As the situation evolves, Norway will continue to explore ways to provide assistance, whether through military aid, humanitarian support, or economic partnerships. We hope that our engagement will encourage other nations to step up as well.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Rigmor. Is there anything else you would like to add about Norway’s commitment to Ukraine?
**Rigmor Aasrud:** I would just like to emphasize that this is not just about financial support; it’s about standing in solidarity with Ukraine during these difficult times. We believe in a united front against aggression and the importance of protecting democratic values. Thank you.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your time, Rigmor. We appreciate your perspective on this important topic.
