Norway's Prime Minister denies "cronyism and corruption" in the Foreign Ministry due to links with the Epstein network

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has formally denied allegations of cronyism and corruption within the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During a parliamentary hearing, Støre addressed concerns regarding the ministry’s historical ties to the network of Jeffrey Epstein, specifically focusing on the period between 2005 and 2012 when he led the department. The inquiry stems from scrutiny over public funds allocated to the Institute I, which has been linked to the investigation.

Støre rejected claims that these isolated contacts with the Epstein network represent a systemic or harmful culture within Norwegian foreign policy. The Prime Minister's testimony serves as a direct response to political pressure regarding the integrity of the ministry’s past administrative and financial decisions.