Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has stated his government will closely monitor Iceland’s upcoming referendum on restarting EU membership negotiations. Iceland’s parliament has scheduled a national vote for August 29th to determine whether to resume talks with the European Union. Støre acknowledged that an Icelandic decision to pursue EU membership would alter the regional context for Norway. However, he anticipates the outcome will not fundamentally change Norwegian attitudes towards its own relationship with the EU. Norway will continue to participate in the EU’s internal market through the existing EEA agreement, regardless of Iceland’s choice. The Prime Minister indicated that Norway primarily focuses on issues directly affecting its own national interests.