Norway to scrutinize welfare society next year

"The Nordic countries and Nordic cooperation are at a crossroads. The global economic crisis has left its mark on the Nordic sphere and it is not certain what the future will bring here or in the world generally. The welfare state is under pressure. The Nordic countries will have to face the challenge and cooperate more," stressed Norwegian prime minister Jens Stoltenberg yesterday when introducing to Nordic MPs the kingdom's plans for 2012, when Norway will hold the presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

Norway emphasises three areas: work and sustainable welfare; green economic growth; knowledge, innovation and Nordic identity.

For further information on Norway's plans for the coming year, see the presidency brochure.

This year the activities of the Nordic Council of Ministers are being guided by Finland. The central themes of Finland's presidency included economic growth, environmental protection and climate.