Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on his re-election, expressing confidence in further strengthening ties between India and Norway.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Congratulations to Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on his re-election. I look forward to continue working closely together to further strengthen the India-Norway partnership in all areas.”
Norway’s Labour Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre secured another term after Monday’s legislative elections, amid a tight race that also saw a record-breaking performance by the anti-immigration Progress Party, Al Jazeera reported.
At an election night rally in Oslo, Støre, 65, celebrated Labour’s victory with about 28 per cent of the votes, enabling him to remain in power with support from four other left-wing parties. Supporters erupted in cheering as the result confirmed a win for progressive politics, with the future of a wealth tax dating back to the late 19th century being a central campaign issue.
Støre thanked voters and remarked, “The victory shows that it is possible for Social Democratic parties to win elections, even with right-wing forces on the rise,” as reported by Norwegian broadcaster VG.
The right-wing Progress Party achieved its best-ever result in a national election, finishing second. Party leader Sylvi Listhaug welcomed the strong showing but warned, “It’s a great result for us, but there are four tough years ahead for people and businesses.”
Conservative Party leader Erna Solberg apologised for her party’s poor performance, which fell to third place in parliament. Around 4.3 million eligible voters in Norway elected members for the 169-seat Storting. Centre-left parties won just over 85 seats, enough to form a majority.
Støre’s second term follows a fiercely contested election, surviving internal party strife, Cabinet scandals, and an attempted leadership coup. His Labour Party has faced challenges including soaring inflation, rising interest rates, and a series of ministerial resignations over tax evasion, ethics breaches, and undisclosed share trades.
-ANI
