EEA Anniversary – Internal Market

In May we've had several events in Oslo and Brussels marking the 20^th anniversary of the signing of the EEA Agreement; although I know these might have been somewhat overshadowed by other news related to the EU. 

Therefore it is even more important for me to highlight the excellent conference organised by NUPI, dedicated to the occasion. This brought about a discussion not only dealing with the impact of the EEA but also with its future (in light of the report "Inside and outside"). When it comes to the EU Delegation, we have dedicated part of this year's Europe Day celebration to the EEA. Furthermore, the EEA Council, held 14 May, noted the 20th anniversary and recognised the value of the Agreement as a durable instrument ensuring the smooth functioning of the EEA. 

As you know, the EEA Agreement provides for the full participation of Norway and of the other EEA EFTA countries in the internal market. So it is very pertinent to note that later this year we'll mark another 20^th anniversary: that of the establishment of the internal market. This will be an occasion for us to analyse how the internal market has influenced the evolution of our economies and also the potential of further developing this market. Doing so will have particular importance in the present circumstances, when the EU's primary aim is to promote growth by (among other means) progressing towards completing the internal market. The Delegation will inform about its related plans (concerning events in Oslo) soon.