UK Prime Minister’s Upcoming Meeting with Norway’s Prime Minister Støre on 7 July 2026

The Prime Minister hosted his Norwegian counterpart, Jonas Gahr Støre, at the British Residence in Ankara today, marking a significant moment in bilateral relations.

Reflections on Football Rivalry

During the opening of their discussions, the leaders reflected on the recent achievements of both the UK and Norway in the FIFA World Cup. The Prime Minister praised the performance of the UK team, emphasising the friendly rivalry between the two nations. He noted that while the UK and Norway share a close alliance and friendship, all bets would be off when it came to their forthcoming match on Saturday.

Strengthening NATO Alliances

Shifting the focus to the NATO Summit in Ankara, both leaders expressed their appreciation for the robust unity displayed among Allies in anticipation of the upcoming session of the North Atlantic Council. They reaffirmed their steadfast support for Ukraine, engaging in discussions about how Allies could continue to provide the necessary resources for Ukraine to successfully repel Russian forces.

Diplomatic Efforts in the Middle East

The conversation then turned to the Strait of Hormuz, where the leaders addressed the critical need for ongoing diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving a lasting ceasefire. The Prime Minister provided an update regarding the UK’s military assets currently stationed in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining a strategic presence.

Collaborative Defence Spending

In a discussion about defence spending, the two leaders underscored the significance of joint procurement initiatives as a means to ensure value for money across major defence projects. This collaboration is seen as vital in enhancing the capabilities of both nations while maximising efficiency in their defence budgets.

The evening concluded with the leaders looking forward to further discussions over dinner, eager to strengthen their partnership and explore additional avenues for cooperation.