Hilsen til 60-årsjubileet for det norske feltsykehuset Normash i Korea

Delivered by videotape.
Støre based his remarks on the following points:

Dear friends of Korea and Norway,

• I am sorry I can’t be with you – in person – tonight.
• 60 years ago – the first contingent of Norwegian medical personnel went to Korea to establish the military field hospital NORMASH.
• As many as 623 Norwegians served there; in the Norwegian Mobile Army Surgical Hospital to Korea.
• I know that some of them are here tonight. You deserve our gratitude and our respect.
• Norway played a key role in the lead-up to this UN operation in Korea. The first UN Secretary-General, the Norwegian Tryggve Lie, led the process for the mandate of this operation. It is with a feeling of pride that we remember his strong dedication to the project. He shaped the UN organisation in a vital phase.
• The UN operation in Korea gathered 21 nations from all parts of the world. The mobilisation had a global impact. The peace created by this UN mission lasted.
• Only a few decades ago the Republic of Korea’s economy was in ruins. Today it is the 13th largest economy in the world and Norway’s second largest trade partner in Asia. Truly remarkable.
• Norway has strong ties with the Republic of Korea and we will continue to expand and strengthen these ties.
• The celebration tonight is proof of our strong and lasting relations. Let me thank you all for your contributions to maintaining and strengthening our relationship.