Noorwegen denkt na over deelname aan defensie-activiteiten EU (en)

Norway's defence minister has said her country has a "real interest" in taking part in EU defence projects, despite not being a member of the Union.

Kristin Krohn Devold told Norwegian broadcaster NRK yesterday (Monday 20 September) that Oslo would be keen to take part in the creation of EU battle groups, a key EU military goal.

"We are very fortunate to have a number of niche capabilities which are in strong demand and I'm sure that these capabilities will probably interest the EU", she said.

The project, which is due to be operational by 2007, will see the creation of six or seven groups of 1,500 soldiers trained to fight in different environments and situations.

"We have a real interest in participating", she told NRK.

Norway has twice voted against joining the European Union but regularly aligns itself with EU statements and contributes to the EU budget.

Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik has yet to comment.