Photo Credit: Mathias Rongved/MFA
In accordance with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions, Norway recognizes Palestine as a state. The territorial boundaries between Palestine and Israel should be based on the pre-1967 borders, as defined in the 1949 Armistice Agreements, with Jerusalem serving as the capital of both states. This recognition is without prejudice to a final settlement on borders, including the possibility of land swaps.
This recognition follows the 2023 decision by the Storting (Norwegian Parliament), which authorized the Government to recognize Palestine as a state when it could positively contribute to the peace process, without requiring a final peace agreement as a precondition.
Recognizing Palestine as a state is a significant decision, which, under Article 28 of the Constitution, requires approval by the King in Council of State. After adoption by Royal Decree on Friday, May 24, Palestine will be formally informed of this recognition through a verbal note. Norway’s formal recognition of Palestine as a state will take effect on Tuesday, May 28, 2024.
With this recognition, Norway will consider Palestine an independent state with all associated rights and responsibilities. This includes the expectation that all interactions with Palestine will be based on fundamental international law principles regarding independence, equality, and peaceful coexistence.
Norway believes that strengthening efforts towards establishing a Palestinian state and achieving a two-state solution will bolster moderate forces on both sides advocating for a political resolution.
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The Norwegian Government has informed both Palestinian and Israeli authorities of its decision to recognize Palestine as a state.
“Norway intends to maintain its close relationship with Israeli authorities. Norway was one of the first countries to recognize the state of Israel in 1949. We acknowledge Israel’s vulnerable security situation and its legitimate right to self-defense within the framework of international law. We believe that the two-state solution is in Israel’s best interest and will contribute to a more peaceful, secure, and stable region,” said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide at the press conference when they announced that Norway recognizes Palestine.
