Dinner speech at 2008 Oslo Conference on Nuclear Disarmament

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, 

I am delighted to welcome all of you to Akershus Castle. 

Akershus was built around 1300 by King Håkon the fifth Magnusson, who ascended to the throne during a period of great turmoil, but ushered in a long period of peace. (He reigned from 1299 to 1319). 

This castle, with its massive stone walls, arrow slits, rows of cannons – and below, the dungeons – tells a long story of defence and protection.

Located on a cliff overlooking the Oslo fjord, Akershus has remained an impenetrable stronghold through the centuries. It has been refortified and altered several times to withstand attacks from foreign enemies. Nine times has it been under siege, but it has never fallen.

But what use would even these stone walls be under a nuclear attack?

Akershus has served many purposes ranging from military fortress and prison to royal residence and – now – the Government's banquet hall.

This castle not only transports us to another era; it also reminds us of our historical inheritance and inspires us to shape our own legacy. I feel it is fitting that we celebrate our common endeavour here.  

So let us raise our glasses to Akershus – Skål! Cheers! and Na zdorovie!    

I hope you will enjoy the evening, and I will return a bit later to introduce the terrific Dag Arnesen Trio, who we will have the pleasure of hearing after our main course. Thank you. 

(Intro of Dag Arnesen Trio)

Some 45 years ago, the Swedish jazz pianist Jan Johanson recorded his classic interpretations of Swedish folk music. These have become a living part of Sweden’s musical heritage.

Two years ago, three of Norway’s most acclaimed jazz musicians interpreted compositions by Edvard Grieg, as well as traditional Norwegian folk music, in a similar vein. The venture was a great success, resulting in one of the best selling Norwegian jazz recordings since its release.

Tonight we have the pleasure of hearing them in person. I take great pleasure in presenting the Dag Arnesen Trio:

Dag Arnesen, piano
Terje Gewelt, double bass, and
Pål Thowsen, drums