Oslo, October 30, 2025 – Today marks a significant milestone in Norway’s history as we celebrate the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation. This date, October 30, 1905, holds a special place in our national story, as the Russian Empire became the very first great power in Europe to formally recognize the independence of the young Norwegian state, just weeks after the dissolution of the union with Sweden.
This historic recognition was a crucial moment of international support for a newly sovereign Norway. The foundation was laid when Norwegian Prime Minister Christian Michelsen personally reached out to the world’s powers. In a pivotal response, Russian Foreign Minister Vladimir Lamsdorf assured Norway that following the formal dissolution of the union, Russia would move to “start the establishment of diplomatic representation and consular service,” expressly to foster “good-neighborly and friendly relations” between our nations.
A Friendship Forged Over Centuries
The ties between our peoples, however, stretch back far beyond 1905, deep into the Viking Age. Historical records from as early as the 9th century detail vibrant trade and cultural exchanges. Norwegian Vikings journeyed east, serving in the retinues of Russian princes. The spirit of border cooperation was formally established as early as 1251 with a treaty between the Novgorod Republic and Norway.
This long-standing connection was reaffirmed in the 20th century when Norway became the third country in the world to establish diplomatic relations with the new Soviet Union after the 1917 revolution.
A Shared History of Liberation
A profound chapter in our shared history was written in the autumn of 1944. Through the heroic Petsamo-Kirkenes operation, the Soviet Red Army liberated Norway’s northernmost province of Finnmark from Nazi occupation, a sacrifice for which many in the north remain grateful.
The 120th anniversary is a moment to reflect on a complex and multifaceted relationship, rooted in a pivotal gesture of recognition and a history of neighborly interaction that has shaped both our nations for over a millennium.
This article is based on a historical communique from the Russian diplomatic service.
(Information from the Russian Embassy Facebook page in Oslo)
