China, Norway agree on normalization of ties

BEIJING - China and Norway have reached consensus on normalization of ties, according to a meeting between Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Norwegian Foreign Minister Borge Brende Monday in Beijing.

Li said the two countries' foreign ministers had candid and in-depth talks, and reached an agreement on the normalization of bilateral ties.

China hopes to work together with Norway to open a new chapter in bilateral ties, and push forward a sustained, healthy and stable relationship, Li said.

China-Norway relations deteriorated due to controversy around the Nobel Peace Prize in 2010 and events connected to the Prize.

Li said China appreciates the new Norwegian government's adherence to the one-China policy and its wish to improve and develop ties with China.

The two economies are highly compatible, Li said, adding China is ready to negotiate with Norway on an FTA, to send out a clear signal of trade and investment liberalization.

Brende, in his turn, said the normalization of relations is of historic significance, and has sent a positive message to the international community.

Norway adheres to the one-China policy and respects China's core interests and major concerns, which are the political foundation for ties, he said.

Li told Brende the history of China-Norway relations shows mutual respect, equality and taking care of respective core interests and major concerns, serve as the precondition and foundation for strengthening political trust and developing ties.

Norway hopes to take the opportunity of normalization of ties with China to enhance high-level exchanges, boost bilateral FTA negotiation and expand win-win cooperation in such areas as investment, hydropower, and offshore oil and gas exploitation, Brende said.

Earlier on Monday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had talks with Brende.