China, Norway agree to normalise bilateral ties

China and Norway have reached a consensus on normalisation of ties that deteriorated since the Oslo-based Nobel Committee conferred the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize to Liu Xiaobo, who was convicted of engaging in activities designed to overthrow the Chinese government.

After a meeting between Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Norwegian Foreign Minister Borge Brende in Beijing on Monday, Li said the two countries' foreign ministers had candid and in-depth talks, and reached an agreement on the normalisation of bilateral ties, reports Xinhua.

He said that China hopes to work together with Norway to open a new chapter in bilateral ties, and push forward a sustained, healthy and stable relationship.

Li said China appreciates the new Norwegian government's adherence to the one-China policy and its wish to improve and develop ties with China.

The two economies are highly compatible, Li said, adding China is ready to negotiate with Norway on an FTA, to send out a clear signal of trade and investment liberalisation.

Brende, on his part, said the normalisation of relations is of historic significance, and Norway adheres to the one-China policy and respects Beijing's core interests and major concerns.

Norway hopes to take the opportunity of normalisation of ties with China to enhance high-level exchanges, boost bilateral FTA negotiation and expand win-win cooperation in such areas as investment, hydro power, and offshore oil and gas exploitation, said Brende.

Earlier on Monday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also held talks with Brende.