Stoltenberg's return: Former NATO chief to shape Norway's economy
The former NATO chief has returned to Norwegian politics. Jens Stoltenberg has just entered the Norwegian government, assuming the role of Minister of Finance. The 65-year-old politician's appointment has been met with positive feedback in Norway.
Previously, Stoltenberg served as Prime Minister of Norway for a year and a half from 2000 to 2001 and held the position for two consecutive terms from 2005 to 2013. He has also been the Minister of Finance and Industry, and from 2014 to 2024, he was the Secretary General of NATO.
It seems that his political career is far from over. Stoltenberg's return to the finance ministry is the result of recent upheavals in the Norwegian political scene.
The collapse of the coalition between the Labour Party and the Centre Party led to the resignation of the former Minister of Finance, Trygve Slagsvold Vedum.
- You won't get rid of me that easily - quipped Stoltenberg in a chat with journalists, shortly before receiving his official nomination.
From NATO to the Ministry of Finance: Stoltenberg’s new mission
Stoltenberg's nomination has elicited mixed reactions, although many commentators underscore his experience and international stature.
The former president of Norway’s central bank, Oeystein Olsen, regarded this decision as advantageous for the country. Jens Ulltveit-Moe, the Norwegian Business Association chairman, expressed satisfaction with removing the Centre Party from power and strengthening the Labour Party.
Stoltenberg is fondly remembered in Norway for the thriving years of the Labour Party. His return to national politics may influence the results of the forthcoming parliamentary elections, scheduled for September. Commentators predict that his nomination could trigger the so-called "Stoltenberg effect," bolstering the Labour Party's standing in the polls.
