Crown Prince and Crown Princess visit Malaysia

Norway's Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit are on an official visit to Malaysia this week. They are accompanied by the Minister for Industry Trond Giske and a delegation from Norwegian industry.

On Monday it was 42 years since diplomatic relations were established between the two nations.

The Norwegian Royals were welcomed by Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak and his wife, Sri Rosmah Mansor.

They were also received in audience by the Malaysian King and Queen, Pertuan Agong og Raja Permaisuri Agong.

Speaking at an official banquet at the Prime Minister's residence, Crown Prine Haakon said iit was his hope that this visit will contribute in strengthening the relations between Malaysia and Norway.

The Crown Prince said that from a geographical perspective, Malaysia and Norway should not have much in common. The Arctic Circle cuts through Norway while Malaysia is only 3 degrees north of the Equator.

- But we both have long coastlines, he went on. Fisheries and aquaculture are therefore important for both countries. Both Malaysia and Norway have vast forest areas – hence a common interest in forestry issues. Our countries are in the fortunate position of having great natural resources such as oil and gas. This is an area where there are strong business ties between Malaysia and Norway.

- I could go on, but I think the main message is clear: Tropical Malaysia and arctic Norway have more in common than we should think at first glance. These areas should be utilized and we should explore the possibilities for further cooperation between our two countries. The large business delegation accompanying us on this official visit proves the great Norwegian interest for Malaysia, the Crown Prince said.

The visit ends on Wednesday.

(NRK/Press release)

Rolleiv Solholm

Tuesday, 09 March 2010 13:52