Welcoming remarks at a seafood dinner

The Minister based his speech on some of these points:

 

• Excellencies, dear guests, Norwegians and Indonesians have for generations lived off the sea. We are – still – a people of seafarers and fishermen. We like to explore and travel.
• Well-known export products contribute to a country’s image. Wherever I go, people know about Norwegian salmon. We are proud of this, as Norway aims to be one of the world’s best seafood producers.
• I know we face fierce competition from a major coastal state like Indonesia, with your high ambitions and extensive resource base. That is how things should be in our globalised world.
• We have already established some cooperation in the field of fisheries. I believe we can learn more from each other and explore our common interest in what is a common goal: developing global sustainable fisheries and improving food security.
• Some figures: Every day, around the world, one million meals are based on Norwegian seafood, from the clear, cold waters off our coast. Last year we produced 3 million tonnes of fish, 90% of which was exported, to a total of 139 countries. But, by way of comparison, Indonesia produced about twice as much.
• As Foreign Minister I travel a lot, and I have greatly enjoyed the exquisite culinary art in different parts of Asia. In Indonesia, I have from my very first visit been struck by the exceptionally warm and generous hospitality of your people.
• My mission at this visit is to promote friendship and partnerships between our countries and people. The occasion is the celebration of 60 years of diplomatic relations and bonds of friendship and cooperation that have grown into unique partnerships between Norway and Indonesia. Most recently also on climate and forestry issues. On Monday, together with Minister Marty, we will open yet another chapter, entering into a strategic partnership.
• Tonight, I would in particular like to commend my colleagues in the Indonesian Government, as well as all the business and government representatives present, who are the ones who build these bridges between our countries.
• I also want to encourage you to look for new opportunities to further increase our economic, political and cultural cooperation. My Government and the Norwegian Embassy in Jakarta are here to offer advice and support. I hope you enjoy a delicious meal and a happy celebration of friendship and togetherness.