Diplomatic relations between Uruguay and countries of jurisdiction
Uruguay and Sweden
Uruguay and Sweden have maintained diplomatic relations for decades, with significant historical ties. Sweden was an important refuge for Uruguayan exiles during the civic-military dictatorship (1973-1985), which forged lasting human connections between the two countries. Economically, both nations signed a Treaty of Commerce and Navigation in 1938 and later agreements on scientific cooperation and investment protection, reflecting a strong commercial agenda.
Cultural exchanges include high-level official visits, such as former President Mr. José Mujica’s visit to Stockholm in 2011, as well as educational cooperation programs. Additionally, a bilateral Working Holiday Program was agreed upon to be reactivated to foster youth mobility and cultural exchange.
Uruguay and Denmark
The relationship between Uruguay and Denmark is based on shared democratic and social values, and it has strengthened over time. The two nations signed an agreement for the exchange of tax information in 2011, aimed at cooperation on fiscal matters and financial transparency. In recent years, bilateral trade has gained momentum: Uruguay exports products such as beef and wood to Denmark, with beef being one of the main exports to Nordic countries.
Culturally, Uruguay and Denmark have promoted academic and artistic exchanges, supported by long-standing cultural cooperation agreements. These initiatives—along with the presence of honorary consulates—have enriched mutual understanding and collaboration in areas such as education and sustainable development.
Uruguay and Norway
Uruguay and Norway have developed a diplomatic relationship marked by international cooperation and solidarity. Norway provided asylum to Uruguayan citizens exiled during the 1973-1985 dictatorship, a historic gesture that strengthened human ties between the two countries. Economically, the two nations signed an agreement for the exchange of tax information in 2013 to promote financial cooperation, and Norwegian companies have invested in Uruguay. A notable example is the participation of the Norwegian company Statoil (now Equinor) in offshore oil exploration in Uruguay, reflecting collaboration in the energy sector.
Cultural exchanges materialize in areas such as scientific research, renewable energy promotion, and academic cooperation, reflecting shared values on sustainable development and human rights.
Uruguay and Iceland
Uruguay and Iceland hold friendly diplomatic relations based on multilateral cooperation and shared commitment to democracy. Iceland is represented in Uruguay through its concurrent embassy in Washington D.C. and also has an honorary consulate in Montevideo. Uruguay has designated an honorary consulate in Reykjavik to serve its community and promote bonds. Economic relations are modest due to the size of both markets, but they include the signing of a tax information exchange agreement in 2012.
More recently, Iceland has joined the commercial initiatives between MERCOSUR and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), aiming to expand trade with Uruguay within the framework of a future bi-regional agreement.
In the cultural field, both countries share a strong interest in renewable energy and sustainable development, which has facilitated technical and academic exchanges. Furthermore, Uruguay has deepened its engagement with Nordic countries in general through cooperation agreements that include Iceland, fostering commercial and cultural exchanges with the entire region.