The British-Norwegian connection
The people of Norway and Britain have enjoyed a long and colorful history with each other. England was a typical destination for Vikings based out of Norway, who would routinely pillage and plunder before returning, a cycle that continued for a long time as part of the 'Viking Age'. They were never able to properly conquer Britain however, and soon found themselves fading from the European stage, subsumed into unequal partnerships with other Scandinavian states.
Though typically foes, our two states do have common interest in the North Sea that lies between us, and the bounty of fish and resources that it has to offer. With Norway free from the bonds of servitude to other powers, we have been able to place the rivalries of the past behind us to some extent. During the Weltkrieg Norway was a neutral country that nonetheless favored the British due to our historic ties. They leased the ships to the then-monarchy, as well as joined in the economic blockade of Germany that took place during the war.
And although the monarchy is gone, those bonds of friendship remain. In 1848 the first labor society was organized in Norway, meant to challenge the dominance of the aristocracy over the economy. Though their revolt was defeated by the sitting government, it established a tradition of socialist thought in [Norway similar to what has now taken hold in the Union of Britain. We are not so different, though some would seek to deny it.
With that in mind it is a pity that the negotiations between the Union of Britain and the Norwegian government have hit such a snag. Britain has much to offer Norway. Security in these increasingly tense times with their neighbors, economic wealth and trade when Black Monday continues to dominate the European economy and unemploys more people every day.
One would suppose, however, that it should come as no shock that the conservative government has rejected such sincere offers. The influence of Berlin is strong, encouraging other nations not to deal with the inevitably rising tide of socialist thought that seeks to sweep away the old order. That they were willing to negotiate at all is a testament to the friendship between our peoples. Yet now it seems we must wait until elections have taken place in Norway to get resolution to this matter.
As such our well wishes and hopes go out to the Radical Socialists and other Leftist movements in Norway, that they will be successful in the upcoming elections and can set Norway on the path that is best for the Norwegian people. There is much we can do to aid each other, and the Union of Britain stands ready with our hand outstretched to share what we have with Norway. It is up to them to take it, and so we hope that it comes to pass soon.
