Svalbard land deal sounds alarm over foreign influence in the Arctic
A significant piece of private property in Norway’s Arctic Svalbard archipelago is on the verge of being sold for approximately €300 million ($330 million), sparking concerns in Oslo regarding national security. The property, known as Søre Fagerfjord, spans around 60 square kilometers (23 square miles) and represents the last privately owned land in Svalbard.
A group of both international and Norwegian investors have expressed interest in purchasing the land. However, Norwegian officials are apprehensive about the potential sale, fearing that it could provide foreign powers with a strategic foothold in a sensitive Arctic region. The property is located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from the main town of Longyearbyen and has been under Norwegian ownership for more than a century. When the land was listed for sale last year, the government swiftly made it clear that any transaction must be approved in advance due to security laws.
Describing the property as a “strategic foothold in the High Arctic,” one of the sellers’ remarks have only amplified concerns. As the Arctic region becomes increasingly important due to melting sea ice opening up new shipping routes and attracting global interest, the potential sale has raised red flags.
The buyers, who identify themselves as environmentalists from NATO countries, claim that their intention is to safeguard the land. Birgit Liodden, a shareholder and climate activist, stated that the consortium comprises individuals with a long-term perspective on protecting the territory from environmental changes. She also mentioned that half of the proceeds from the sale would be allocated to environmental projects in Svalbard. However, the group has not engaged in discussions with the Norwegian government thus far.
Norwegian officials remain cautious, recalling a similar attempt by Chinese investors in 2024 that was blocked. Trade Minister Cecilie Myrseth cautioned that such actions could potentially destabilize the region and jeopardize national interests. Svalbard is governed by a 1920 treaty granting over 40 countries, including Russia, China, and the U.S., equal rights to reside and conduct business in the area. Russia, which maintains a settlement on the islands, has accused Norway of violating the treaty by bolstering its military presence, a claim that Norway refutes.
Per Kyllingstad, the sellers’ attorney, emphasized that the buyers’ sole objective is to preserve nature and urged against obstructing the sale. The intricate dynamics surrounding the potential transaction highlight the delicate balance between environmental conservation, national security, and international agreements in the Arctic region.
Jasmine, a writer at Fox News Digital and a military spouse based in New Orleans, contributed to this article. For story submissions, please contact jasmine.baehr@fox.com.
