HIS Royal Highness Crown Prince of Norway Haakon Magnus says his visit to Fiji marks a turning point towards deepening the diplomatic ties between the two countries.
The Republic of Fiji Military Forces accorded the guard of honour upon his arrival at the Nausori International Airport.
He was later given a traditional welcoming ceremony at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva with the presence of members of Parliament, foreign diplomats and senior government officials.
“I want to thank Bainimarama and the people of Fiji for the warm and inviting welcome to your land,” Prince Haakon said.
“I am the first from my family to visit Fiji and this certainly marks a starting point towards deepening the relationship between Fiji and Norway. I hope to learn and share more of our common values and interests during my visit.”
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said Fiji and Norway were home to unique cultures and languages.
“We each have a rich history of maritime exploration. We are international promoters of peace –– our peacekeepers have served alongside each other in Lebanon, Sudan, and the Sinai Peninsula,” he said.
“On the global stage, we share a passion for protecting the climate, our oceans and our natural environment.
“That passion isn’t by coincidence; our nations are faced with a mutual sense of urgency to address climate change, as the consequences of rising seas and heightened temperatures are already being felt by Fijians and Norwegians alike.
“That’s why Norway, like Fiji, has led the world as we work to curb climate change. I thank the government of Norway for its ambitious advocacy in this fight, and for its generous financial support of Fiji’s own efforts, including the Ocean Pathway. He is expected to fly out of the country tomorrow.
