Norway has announced new restrictions on the entry of Russian tourists, effective from May 29.
According to a statement from the Norwegian government, the country will prohibit Russian citizens travelling for tourism and other “non-essential” purposes from entering its territory.
However, exceptions may be granted for those visiting family members, or for work or study purposes.
The move by Norway is part of a broader trend of increasing diplomatic and travel restrictions between Russia and several European countries, primarily in response to geopolitical tensions and security concerns.
Norway, while not a member of the European Union (EU), aligns closely with EU policies and is a founding member of NATO.
The relationship between Norway and Russia has been historically complex, given their shared border in the Arctic and competing interests in regional security and natural resources.
This policy adjustment reflects ongoing adjustments in diplomatic strategies amidst fluctuating international relations with Russia.
Norway decided on Sunday to close its diplomatic mission offices in Ramallah due to Israeli pressure following Oslo’s recognition of the state of Palestine.
The Norwegian announcement stated, “The office of the Norwegian mission in Palestine is closed until further notice as a result of the Netanyahu government’s decision not to facilitate our country’s representation to the Palestinian Authority. Our representative office in Ram in Palestine is to be closed starting today.”
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide announced, “The Norwegian Foreign Ministry has decided to close its diplomatic mission offices in Ramallah, following Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz’s decision to prohibit our diplomats from working with the Palestinian Authority.”
This decision was taken by Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz, who penalized the Norwegians for the “hostile attitude” they had shown towards Israel since the beginning of the war.
