ASEAN-Norway: Promoting shared goals through dialogue and cooperation

Vietnam is a proactive and reliable member of ASEAN, playing a central role in strengthening intra-bloc cohesion as well as the Association's foreign relations.

The trilateral meeting between Malaysia, Norway and the ASEAN Secretariat took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on July 8, 2025. (Source: asean.org)

ASEAN at a new development crossroads

ASEAN is at a turning point, preparing to enter a new era of development shaped by changes in the global landscape, the green-digital transition, and the region’s growing role in multilateral forums. In this context, ASEAN’s capacity to build and deepen partnerships becomes more important than ever.

Norwegian Ambassador to ASEAN Kjell Tormod Pettersen. (Source: NVCC)

Vietnam is a proactive and reliable member of ASEAN, playing a central role in strengthening the Association’s internal cohesion as well as its external relations. Since Norway became a sectoral dialogue partner of ASEAN in 2015, Vietnam has actively supported this relationship both in Jakarta and Hanoi . We have cooperated closely on relevant projects based on agreements signed between Norway and ASEAN, as well as on bilateral programmes to promote regional cooperation, for example in the maritime sector.

I see that Vietnam is well aware of the benefits of deepening ASEAN's external relations in the current increasingly complex geopolitical context.

This is a story about ASEAN's ability to assert its central role in the Indo- Pacific , increasing its influence regionally and internationally.

Norway’s cooperation with ASEAN is currently guided by a five-year cooperation agreement, which is expected to be extended for the period 2026-2030. In this agreement, we have identified areas of mutually beneficial cooperation that are in line with the ASEAN Vision 2045 and the Association’s development goals. In my opinion, we should focus on projects and areas of cooperation where Norway has strengths, such as the blue economy, sustainable ocean management, blue shipping, renewable energy and the circular economy.

A decade of dialogue and shared priorities

Norway is proud to be ASEAN’s first sectoral dialogue partner. This year marks the 10th anniversary of our dialogue partnership, a significant milestone in the development of our relationship. Over the past decade, we have been learning how ASEAN works and identifying the most effective ways to cooperate.

I am impressed that ASEAN is increasingly understanding the value of cooperation that Norway brings, although a small partner, but with outstanding expertise in a number of areas of international politics and trade.

ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn visits BIR AS – one of Norway’s largest waste management companies, located in Bergen on June 12, 2025. (Source: Asean.org)

In June, the ASEAN Secretary-General made an official visit to Norway, demonstrating the growing depth of the partnership and Norway’s appreciation for its relations with ASEAN and Southeast Asian countries. The ASEAN delegation met with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, as well as senior politicians and academics. The visit concluded in Bergen, where the delegation was briefed on Norway’s efforts to transition to green shipping and a more circular economy.

The visit reaffirms shared interests in sustainable development, multilateralism and inclusive growth, and demonstrates Norway’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in strategic areas in line with the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Looking to the future

In an increasingly complex and interdependent world, Norway’s partnership with ASEAN – built on shared values, mutual respect and a spirit of forward-looking cooperation – will be increasingly essential.

Norway-ASEAN relations are now at a good point, firmly consolidated in areas of common interest. However, we also need to remain flexible and adapt to changes. We will continue to review and assess our bilateral relations within the framework of ASEAN's foreign policy towards external partners.

Clearly, we should aim to do more together, because our economies are complementary, and we share similar views on many global issues – such as maintaining the rules-based multilateral trading system and international law.

The next decade will not only be a continuation, but also a further strengthening of the partnership. Norway will continue to maintain dialogue with ASEAN and its member states, including Vietnam, towards a greener, safer and more inclusive future – bringing real benefits to people and contributing positively to peace, prosperity and sustainable development globally.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/asean-na-uy-thuc-day-nhung-muc-tieu-chung-thong-qua-doi-thoai-va-hop-tac-323330.html