Åpning av Norges paviljong på CIIE

                                                                                          Sjekkes mot fremføring

Your excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Dear everyone,

What an incredible honour it is to stand here today in Shanghai, witnessing the opening of Norway’s very first National Pavilion at the China International Import Expo!

This pavilion stands as a powerful symbol of our collaboration –an achievement made possible by hard work, dedication, and the passion of everyone involved.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to all of you.

Thank you for your tremendous efforts!

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The China International Import Expo is not just another event.

It sends a powerful message:

When nations open their doors and engage with one another, we achieve much more than economic growth - we create shared prosperity.

This expo underscores the importance of keeping our economies open, fostering cooperation, and building partnerships that transcend borders.

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This year we celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations between Norway and China.

Our partnership is strong, and today, as I look at the remarkable Norwegian companies represented here –Tine, Ekornes, Equinor, and many more – I see a future filled with opportunity.

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Over the past years, our two countries have taken meaningful steps to strengthen our cooperation.

The Norwegian Foreign Minister visited Beijing and Shanghai in February, followed by the Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry in May.

In June the Minister of Climate and Environment visited Mongolia, Beijing and Xiamen [Kjia-men].

Finally, in September, our Prime Minister met with President Xi Jinping [Kji Djin Ping] and signed a joint statement with Minister Li Qiang [Li Tjiang], launching a Dialogue on the Green Transition.  

This agreement will pave the way for collaboration on cutting emissions, preserving biodiversity, and creating green industries and jobs – benefitting both of our nations.

Dear friends,

Today, China is Norway’s largest trading partner in Asia, and our relationship continues to grow stronger.

The companies represented here today demonstrate what is possible when we embrace the opportunities of the future.

They also reflect the range of Norwegian business, and the long cooperation between our industries. Ranging from the maritime industry to furniture, seafood and nutrition, to mention a few.

Together, we can accelerate the green transition and build a more sustainable, prosperous world.

So, let us continue this journey.

Let us lead the green wave together!

Thank you for your attention!