Faroes closing in on WHO and WTO membership

It is likely that the Faroes will become a member of the World Health Organization (WHO) within the next six months.

Membership of the World Trade Organization (WTO) may be a bit further away, but this is an equally realistic prospect, says trade minister Jenis av Rana following a series of meetings with his Danish counterpart Jeppe Kofod, who is currently visiting the Faroes.

“We have had a healthy dialogue about these plans,” says Rana. “There are some minor disagreements on the membership status – we are seeking full membership, while the Danes are leaning more towards associated membership – but let’s see how it goes. Both sides are displaying a positive approach.

United Nations observer status

The Faroes are also seeking observer status in the United Nations in an attempt to up their presence on the international political stage.

“This is the first time we have directly discussed these plans with the Danish authorities, and the minister’s response was very positive,” says Rana.

This positive attitude from Denmark may help speed up this process, he adds.

Translated by prosa.fo