Norway supports international cooperation and the peaceful settlement of disputes, recognizing the need for maintaining a strong national defense through collective security . Accordingly, the cornerstones of Norwegian policy are active membership in NATO and support for the United Nations and its specialized agencies. Norway also pursues a policy of economic, social, and cultural cooperation with other Nordic countries--Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland--through the Nordic Council. Norway ended a 2-year term on the UN Security Council in January 2003, and chaired the Iraq Sanctions Committee .

In addition to strengthening traditional ties with developed countries, Norway seeks to build friendly relations with developing countries and has undertaken humanitarian and development aid efforts with selected African and Asian nations. Norway also is dedicated to encouraging democracy, assisting refugees, and protecting human rights throughout the world.

Norway is the only Scandinavian country that is not a member of the European Union. Membership has been proposed within Norway, but fears over a loss of sovereignty regarding fishing quotas have led to the government's decision to remain outside the EU for the present time. However, as it's neighbours and biggest trade partners are EU members most commentators predict membership at some point as long as an agreement over fishing rights can be made.

Disputes - international: territorial claim in Antarctica (Dronning Maud Land)

See also

• Norway
• Scandinavian defense union