211 years ago today, on the May 17, Norway’s Constitution was signed, paving the way for Norwegian independence in 1905.
On our National Day, we celebrate our independence and our freedom. And we celebrate the values our nation is built upon: democracy, peace, rule of law, and equality and human rights for all.
Marking the 80 years anniversary of the end of World War II earlier this month, His Majesty King Harald emphasised the need to tirelessly defend these values and to protect our freedom, saying it requires efforts not only at home, in Norway, but also internationally. Our freedom and peace, just like that of all nations, depends on respect for international law and a rules-based world order. An order that was built on the ruins of the second World War “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war” as is stated in the UN Charter.
A rules-based world order and a functioning multilateral system is in the interest of all countries. This is why Norway contributes one per cent of our Gross National Income (GNI) to development aid, and also why we consistently defend international law and work to hold parties accountable to their international obligations.
In a rapidly changing geopolitical reality the importance of upholding these common principles we have agreed on becomes even more urgent. Not only when it suits our own more narrow national interests, but also when it doesn’t. Only then can the rules-based world order be legitimate and strong. Only then can we find solutions to our common, global challenges.
Norway condemns all attacks that are committed in breach of international law, including international humanitarian law and human rights law, whether these breaches take place in Ukraine or in Gaza. Deliberately attacking civilians is a grave violation of international law everywhere.
We live in times with much uncertainty and polarisation in the world. More so than many countries, Egypt is affected by instability and conflict close to home. Norway appreciates the proactive role Egypt has taken in engaging in dialogue and building bridges. We particularly commend Egypt’s steadfast efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and the substantial efforts to relieve the suffering of the Palestinian civilians through contributing with and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid, as well as working towards a political path forward and a two-state solution.
The broad bilateral relations between our two countries are based on mutual respect and many shared interests. We appreciate the strong dialogue and co-operation in several areas; political, economic, environmental, cultural, and many more. His Excellency President Sisi’s visit to Norway in December is a testimony to strong and broad bilateral relations.
Renewable energy agreements were signed during the visit, including groundbreaking projects and major contributions to the green transition globally. I am proud to see Norwegian companies contributing to Egypt’s high ambitions of becoming a green energy hub.
Development co-operation is another area that is growing. Our programmes include food security and nutrition, small-scale farmers, women’s rights and reproductive health, as well as support for the refugees and host communities, and also Palestinians in Egypt. We commend Egypt for its generosity in hosting millions of refugees and migrants.
Cultural exchange is also an area where our co-operation is increasing. We were honoured to be the Guest country at the Cairo International Book Fair last year. A milestone for the introduction of Norwegian literature and culture to the many interested readers in Egypt. I hope to also see more Egyptian literature becoming available to the Norwegian audience, and also working together towards more cultural exchanges. Art in all its forms has the unique ability to bridge cultures, and create understanding and co-operation across borders – something the world needs now more than ever.
Today, as we celebrate our independence and the values our democratic nation is built upon, we stay committed to work with friends and allies across the world to uphold and protect a world order based on international law.
Hilde Klemetsdal, Ambassador of Norway to Egypt
