04 April 2002

U.S., Norway to Enhance Cooperation in Defense Industry Matters

The United States and Norway on April 2 signed a declaration of principles to enhance cooperation in matters of defense equipment and industry, an agreement that is expected to reduce impediments between American and European defense companies while harmonizing and streamlining procedures, according to the following Defense Department news release:

U.S. Department of Defense
April 4, 2002
DOD, Norwegians Sign Principles Declaration

Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld and Norwegian Minister of Defense Kristin Krohn Devold signed a bilateral U.S. Department of Defense and Royal Norwegian Ministry of Defense declaration of principles for enhanced cooperation in matters of defense equipment and industry at the Pentagon on April 2, 2002. The signing event was a reaffirmation of the close ties and intent to strengthen military industrial cooperation, both in current and future endeavors.

Declarations of principles are designed to reduce impediments to cooperation between U.S. and European defense companies, identify areas where both parties can move toward similar processes, harmonize and streamline procedures, lessen administrative burdens where possible, and capitalize on opportunities for cooperation.

The U.S.-Norwegian declaration addresses harmonization of military requirements, assurance of supply of defense goods and services, export procedures, information and technology security, ownership and corporate governance, and research and development cooperation.