Ine Eriksen Søreide, the incoming leader of Norway's Conservative Party and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, addressed questions about her relationship with her friend Mona Juul, who is facing serious corruption charges. This comes after news that Økokrim, Norway's national authority for investigation and prosecution of economic and environmental crime, has charged Juul with gross corruption, and her husband, Terje Rød-Larsen, is being charged as an accomplice. During her tenure as Foreign Minister from 2017 to 2021, Søreide acknowledges the need for the Foreign Ministry to have investigated the Institute for Peace and International Relations (IPI) further after a warning was raised in 2019.

At a press conference, Søreide clarified that her relationship with Juul, who served as an ambassador in the foreign service, was not very close. She mentioned that she had known Juul since before entering the government in 2013, and as a precaution, she declared her incapacity to handle personnel matters concerning Juul when she became Foreign Minister in 2017. This situation puts Søreide in a potentially difficult position, given the serious nature of the allegations against her friend and colleague, which raises questions about her oversight during her ministerial role.

The implications of this case extend beyond personal disappointment for Søreide, as it may impact public perception of her leadership capabilities and integrity as she steps into the role of party leader. The situation emphasizes the interconnectedness of personal relationships and political accountability, especially in light of corruption allegations that could undermine trust in governmental institutions. The public and political response to these events will significantly shape the narrative surrounding Søreide and her leadership of the Conservative Party going forward.