The Government intends to strengthen Sami culture and language and to promote the development of the Sami areas. The Government s church policy is designed to promote active involvement in and the continual renewal of the Church of Norway as a confessing, evangelizing, tolerant and open national church. Our oil and gas resources will be managed on a long-term basis. The knowledge gained through almost 30 years of operations on the Norwegian continental shelf must be further developed to safeguard jobs and enhance value added. The use of gas, renewable energy sources and efforts to limit energy use will contribute to environmentally sound energy production.
Globalization involves tougher competitive conditions for the business sector.
Our business policy will facilitate innovation, restructuring capacity and the development of a viable business community. The Government will propose that an investment company be established with state and private capital which will enable Norwegian enterprises to take a proactive part in structural changes and merger processes in the business sector. Good transport facilities are important both for the business sector and for welfare in all parts of the country. New digital technology will play a central role in the new knowledge and information society. The whole country will be ensured access to basic ICT services and will have access to broad band communication.