Presentation of Norway’s Official Application for EU Membership

Norway officially submits its application to join the European Communities. However, in the referendum held in the country in November 1994, 52.2% of voters opposed membership. This was the second referendum Norway held on joining the European family. The first referendum took place in September 1972, where 53.5% voted against membership.
Nevertheless, Norway is one of the EU’s closest partners. EU-Norway cooperation is based on shared fundamental values and is supported by common heritage and history, as well as strong cultural and geographical ties. Norway maintains close relations with the EU through the European Economic Area Agreement (1994) and many other bilateral agreements. The EU and Norway also have very close and active cooperation on foreign policy and security policy issues.