NORWAY'S FOREIGN MINISTER VETOES RELATIONS WITH IRAN UNTIL THE FATWA IS REMOVED - Diplomatic crisis as Iran's Ambassador to Norway is recalled

The Norwegian government has recalled its Ambassador to Iran Mr Birger Bye, following the removal of Iran's envoy to Oslo. Ambassador Abdolrahim Gavahi had written a letter concerning the fatwa to the Norwegian Ministry in June 1994, which was regarded by the Iranian authorities as too liberal and tolerant.

On 27 January, the Norwegian Rushdie Defence Committee, led by Chairman Sigmund Stromme and including the five political leaders who form its council, met with Norwegian Foreign Minister Bjorn Tore Godal at his invitation. Jan Egeland, the Deputy Foreign Minister attended the meeting which lasted over an hour and covered wide-ranging discussions on the implications of the withdrawal by the Iranians of their Ambassador to Oslo and the subsequent recall of Norway's Ambassador to Tehran, who was also present. In particular, the possibility of a concerted Nordic position was raised, as was the question of cancelling Norwegian export guarantees with Iran. The International Rushdie Defence Committee's strategy, outlined in a letter to Mr Egeland dated 18 January, was also discussed.

In a statement to Parliament on 31 January, Foreign Minister Godal made it clear that normal relations with Iran will not be resumed until the threat of the fatwa is removed.

Meanwhile, Norway will not be returning its Ambassador to Tehran, nor will there be any promotion of Norwegian trade or further export guarantees to Iran. The Foreign Minister added that Norway will continue to persuade countries, including those beyond the Western helisphere, to adopt a similarly uncompromising policy on the fatwa while, at the same time, seeking opportunities for dialogue with Iran.