– We want a good interaction between the authorities and the municipalities to balance consideration for business and local communities on the one hand, and national security on the other. However, the government is prepared to say no to Chinese actors if it is necessary to safeguard national security, says Minister of Justice and Emergency Preparedness Emilie Enger Mehl (Sp) in a press release.
The statement comes after several Chinese companies have shown interest in Kirkenes, writes the Ministry of Justice and Emergency Preparedness.
Among other things, it became known a short time ago that there have been meetings between Kirkenes Havn and the Chinese shipping company China Ocean Shipping Company (Cosco).
May pose a threat to national security
Norwegian security services have previously warned against cooperation with such Chinese actors, and believe it could pose a threat to national security.
Mehl is clear that the government must safeguard national control and security in both the short and long term.
– The government understands that it can be difficult for a municipality when considerations of national security are set against activity that can provide jobs or income, but in this type of case national security must come first, says the Minister of Justice.
– It is appropriate to challenge the Norwegian authorities
Chairman Terje Hansen of the port board in Kirkenes, who is also the Frp’s second candidate in Finnmark, said NRK 19 August that he was aware of the warnings from the Norwegian security services, but still believed it was right to facilitate cooperation with Chinese actors.
– It is appropriate to challenge the Norwegian authorities. If a Chinese company comes to do business with us, we will drag it out completely, said Hansen.
#government #open #Chinese #establishments #Kirkeneshavn
2024-09-04 17:56:21
