onsdag 22. desember 2010

Looking back at 2010

The year of 2010 is about to end. Has it made a difference in the relationship between Norway and the European Union? Has it brought to the surface new players and factors which will have a lasting impact?

Firstly, the health of the euro (and that of the whole EU economy) has been under close scrutiny throughout the year. Although recovery is visible and the basic underlying processes are positive, the crisis is not over and several member states had to introduce radical austerity programmes. Due mainly to the crisis and according to public opinion polls, at present only one in four Norwegians would support EU membership. But we all hope that the crisis will be overcome.

On the other side of the same coin, events have revealed in a striking manner the far-reaching consequences of the fact that our economies (of Norway and the EU) are so closely integrated. It has dawned upon us that continued difficulties would affect all sides and there is a clear common interest in rising above them. I hope the understanding of this will be more durable that the crisis itself.

Secondly, this year has seen Norway launching a reflection on the experiences with the EEA Agreement. The EU meanwhile has decided to initiate a parallel process. The outcome of these will obviously have longer-term repercussions. Hopefully, we'll find the way to adjust the functioning of the Agreement and the pertinent institutions to the changing circumstances, making it more efficient and focused.

2010 has also been a period of unfolding public debate about a number of EU directives and regulations. Obviously, we follow this very closely, respecting the fact that it is a Norwegian debate. But it is also true that the debate is about the implementation of an agreement shared by both of us, alongside other partners. It is nice to see that (according, once again, to public opinion polls) there is a clear majority among Norwegians on incorporating the directive which has produced the most intense debate and has most probably got the widest coverage in the press this year.

Thirdly, the EU has made a number of steps implementing the Lisbon Treaty and the process has had important repercussions for our relationship with Norway, though we need time to see the longer-term consequences more clearly. The European External Action Service will be up and running 1 January 2011 and I have to report to you that I have already been transferred to the new service together with all the staff of our Delegation.

Fourthly, the EU and Norway have arrived to agreements on a number of important (and complex) matters in the area of fisheries, agricultural trade and the EEA and Norway Financial Mechanisms, to mention just a few, which will determine work in the respective fields in the coming years.

So, what is the heritage of 2010 for us? Has this been a difficult but overall positive year? You will tell us. I have tried to provide some elements for your reflection. In the meantime let me wish to everybody who reads these lines Merry Xmas and a New Year that will be (even) better than the one ending now.