French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday called on Norway, now Europe's largest gas supplier, to
"strengthen its action
" to fight against the soaring gas prices induced by the war in Ukraine.
During a telephone interview with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, the Head of State "welcomed Norway's efforts to increase its exports and thus contribute to reducing European dependence on Russian hydrocarbons", specified the Elysee. .
"He called on Norway to continue and strengthen its action in order to fight against the rise in energy prices in Europe"
, also indicated the French presidency.
As a result of Moscow's reduction in its gas supplies in retaliation for European sanctions following the Russian offensive in Ukraine, Norway has become Europe's main gas supplier, to which it is linked by a vast network of pipelines.
Read alsoWho sabotaged the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea?
The Scandinavian country is currently producing at full capacity.
According to official forecasts, its gas exports could reach a record level of 122 billion m3 this year.
To be compared with some 150 billion m3 of gas per year supplied by Russia to the European Union before the war.
Faced with soaring prices, several European states, including Italy, are advocating a cap on the price of gas purchased not only from Russia but also from other producing countries such as Norway, a proposal warmly welcomed by Oslo.
The two leaders also discussed
"what Norway is doing to secure the gas supply to the Norwegian continental shelf in the light of events in the Baltic Sea"
, specified the services of the Norwegian Prime Minister.
Enhanced security
After disturbing drone sightings and the alleged sabotage of Nord Stream gas pipelines, Norway announced on Wednesday a tightening of security around its oil and gas facilities considered a potential prime target.
“The discussion also focused on the holding in Prague on October 6 of the first meeting of the European Political Community
” (EPC), specified the Elysée.
The EPC, initiated in May by President Emmanuel Macron, aims to allow regular intergovernmental dialogue between the Member States of the European Union and countries aspiring or not to join the EU such as Ukraine, the United Kingdom , Turkey and Norway.
It is intended to meet at management level once or twice a year.
The EU assures that it is not an alternative solution to the enlargement of the bloc.