Emails released by the US Department of Justice reveal that Thorbjørn Jagland and Jeffrey Epstein discussed the potential purchase of a property in Oslo. A possible “joint investment” was also mentioned.

This is disclosed in documents made public in connection with the Epstein case, according to VG.

An email dated 28 September 2014 shows that the former Norwegian Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland asked Epstein for financial assistance.

“If you could guarantee (very risky) the remainder, that would be helpful. For me, a loan of NOK 10 million is a bit too much, as I don’t want to carry a lot of debt into retirement,” the email reads, per VG.

At the time, Jagland was serving as Secretary General of the Council of Europe.

In the same email, Jagland added: “So a joint investment, as you mentioned, would be of interest.”

When asked by VG about the emails, Jagland responded:

“Our properties are entirely financed through loans from DNB. They are owned by my wife and me, as registered in the land registry and viewable at Kartverket.”

Jagland commented on his relationship with Epstein to various media outlets in November. He maintained at the time that his contact with Epstein formed part of normal diplomatic activity.

“I strongly distance myself from what has come to light regarding Jeffrey Epstein’s private life,” he emphasised.

In December, he told VG that he had nothing further to add beyond his previous statements on the matter. He also referred to a private situation.

(©NTB)