Stoltenberg's return sparks hope for Norway's Labour Party
The former NATO chief has returned to Norwegian politics. Jens Stoltenberg has just entered the Norwegian government. The 65-year-old politician has taken on the role of Minister of Finance. His appointment has been met with positive comments in Norway.
In the past, Stoltenberg was the Prime Minister of Norway for a year and a half, from 2000 to 2001, and served two terms from 2005 to 2013. He previously served as Minister of Finance and Industry, and from 2014 to 2024, he was the Secretary-General of NATO.
It turns out that his political career is not over yet. Stoltenberg's re-assumption of the finance ministry is the result of turmoil in the Norwegian political scene.
The disintegration of the coalition between the Labour Party and the Centre Party led to the resignation of the incumbent Minister of Finance, Trygve Slagsvold Vedum.
— You won't get rid of me that easily, — joked Stoltenberg in a conversation with journalists. This was before he received his official nomination.
From NATO to the Ministry of Finance. Stoltenberg’s new mission
Stoltenberg's nomination has received mixed reactions, although many commentators highlight his experience and international recognition.
The former president of Norway’s central bank, Øystein Olsen, deemed this decision beneficial for the country. Jens Ulltveit-Moe, chairman of the Norwegian Business Association, expressed satisfaction with the removal of the Centre Party from power and the strengthening of the Labour Party.
Stoltenberg is associated in Norway with the best years of the Labour Party. His return to national politics might influence the outcomes of the upcoming parliamentary elections, which will take place in September. Commentators predict that his nomination could trigger the so-called "Stoltenberg effect," strengthening the Labour Party's position in the polls.
