Norwegian MPs vote to set up Epstein scandal commission
Following revelations that Norway’s foreign policy elite were involved in the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, the Norwegian parliament unanimously decided to establish an independent commission of inquiry.
The commission will examine the work of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other officials in recent decades, Norwegian news agency NTB reported on Tuesday.
“It is very important that the facts are brought to light,” Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said in his speech in parliament. he said.
The parliamentary audit committee had previously recommended the establishment of the commission.
The parliamentary leadership will appoint its members.
Among those in the spotlight for their links to US sex offender Epstein is former Norwegian prime minister Thorbjørn Jagland, who also serves as secretary general of the Council of Europe.
Also facing scrutiny were former ambassador to Jordan and Iraq Mona Juul and her husband, former top diplomat Terje Rod-Larsen.
According to NTB, investigations are ongoing against Jagland and Juul on suspicion of serious corruption, and against Rod-Larsen on suspicion of aiding and abetting serious corruption.
Former Norwegian foreign minister Borge Brende resigned as president of the World Economic Forum after his contacts with Epstein were revealed.
Meanwhile, Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit is said to maintain a close friendship with the pedophile.
The planned investigation is planned to go back to 1993.
NTB said the investigation will examine relationships between Norwegian authorities and external organizations, foundations and networks in which Norway is involved.
