Norwegian leaders are emphasizing the necessity for enhanced green cooperation with China as a vital approach to address climate challenges and stimulate economic recovery. Executives and analysts from Norway are advocating for deeper dialogues and tangible collaborations in critical sectors including climate governance, green shipping, and digital innovation.

In light of escalating global environmental issues, the collaboration between China and Europe is advancing towards sustainable development and a green transition, generating momentum towards the United Nations' 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. This strategic partnership boasts initiatives across various sectors, particularly in the deployment of clean energy, technological advancements, and infrastructure development.

Carl Fey, a strategy professor at BI Norwegian Business School, highlights the expansive mutual interests that China and the EU share in climate governance, green transition, and digital progress. He asserts that both entities can significantly complement each other's strengths.

Fey remarked, 'Both Europe and China desire a peaceful and open world.' He pointed out that specialization and collaboration are critical paths to advancing technology.

With Norway's expertise in offshore platforms and carbon capture technologies, combined with China's prowess in wind energy and shipbuilding, the potential for collaboration is vast. Fey suggests that cultivating mutual trust and progressing agreements such as the China-EU Comprehensive Investment Agreement can further enhance cooperative opportunities.

Erik Solheim, a former United Nations under-secretary-general, noted the shifting global landscape towards multipolarity, proposing that China and Europe ought to lead the initiative in establishing a rules-based international order beneficial to all. He stated, 'There is much more that unites us than divides us,' urging Europe to embrace increased Chinese green investments in sectors like electric vehicles and renewable energy.

Knut Arild Hareide, CEO of the Norwegian Shipowners' Association, acknowledged the pivotal role of shipping in global trade and sustainable development while cautioning against arising geopolitical tensions and protectionist sentiments. He noted the significance of collaborations, commenting that 'Chinese shipyards are today producing some of the world's most advanced vessels.'

Norwegian business influencers praised China's leadership in innovations within green shipping. Sidsel Norvik, director of Nor-Shipping, highlighted the inspiration drawn from China's initiatives in wind-assisted propulsion and battery hybridization.

Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria, COO of DNV Maritime, emphasized the necessity for close international cooperation in reaching net-zero emissions in shipping by 2050, designating China as an essential companion in this transition.

Tronstad Sagebakken, state secretary at Norway's Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries, reiterated the longstanding collaborative efforts between China and Norway focusing on ocean industries and the green transition. He emphasized, 'If we are to solve the significant challenges of our time and expedite the green transition, collective efforts are essential.'

(Cover: A marine ranch in Rongcheng City, Shandong Province, east China, June 5, 2025. /VCG)