German‑Norwegian relations are very close and amicable. The German occupation of Norway during the Second World War led to a profound rift in the traditionally very good relations between the two countries. Willy Brandt, who had spent 1933 to 1940 in exile in Norway, played a key role in reconciling the two countries after the War.

Today, bilateral political relations are excellent. For Germany, Norway is an important partner, both in its role as the largest energy provider and in connection with implementation of the energy transition, as well as in the sphere of armaments cooperation and for addressing many international issues (for example, support for Ukraine). The Norwegian government’s Germany Strategy (most recently updated in April 2024) continues to play a major role in shaping bilateral relations. Norway regards Germany as its most important partner in Europe and a key country for its relations with the EU. The aim of the Strategy is to further deepen bilateral cooperation with regard to shared values, foreign and security policy, the green transition and economic cooperation, internal security and national prosperity, as well as education and culture. In addition to the Goethe-Institut in Oslo, the German School in Oslo plays an important part in promoting German culture and the German language.

In 2023, Germany was Norway’s largest supplier, ahead of China and Sweden. Norway’s main imports from Germany in 2023 were machinery and vehicles (58% of Norwegian imports from Germany), as well as chemical products (approx. 14%) and processed goods (approx. 12%). Meanwhile, some 50% of Germany’s natural gas imports come from Norway. Norway has traditionally been a highly popular travel destination for Germans, who along with Swedes make up the country’s largest group of foreign tourists. In 2023, there were a little over 2.3 million overnight stays by German visitors in Norway.

The Norwegian‑German Willy Brandt Foundation, which was established in 2000, has since its founding annually awarded the Willy Brandt Prize for outstanding achievements in the field of bilateral relations. In 2024, the Prize was awarded to the German politician Franz Thönnes and the Norwegian journalist Asbjørn Svarstad for their outstanding efforts in promoting German-Norwegian relations.