Norwegian Consul General in Shanghai Lise Nordgaard (third from right), Harold Nordgaard and Chinese officials toast during the event on May 21, 2024 in Shanghai. Photo: Courtesy of Norwegian Consulate General in Shanghai

The Norwegian Consulate General in Shanghai hosted a reception to celebrate the Norwegian National Day on Tuesday in Shanghai, with government officials from Shanghai, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Anhui provinces, foreign diplomats, and representatives from the Norwegian community, universities, enterprises, media, participating in the event. 

The Norwegian National Day is also the Norwegian Constitution Day. The Norwegian Constitution was launched on May 17, 1814, emphasizing sovereignty, democracy and the separation of powers and human rights, said Norwegian Consul General Lise Nordgaard. 

"2024 marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Norway, I'm pleased that the bilateral relations are developing in a steady and positive way," the consul general said.

The consul general highlighted the importance of children and speeches made by children. Embla from Norway and Wang Weiren from China were the two young speakers at the event to celebrate the Norwegian National Day and the China-Norway friendship.

The consul general invited the guests to visit "Norway Now" to be held from May 23 to 26 in Shanghai, which is to celebrate the 70-year anniversary of the establishment of Norway-China diplomatic relations. It is organized by Team Norway in Shanghai, comprising the Norwegian Consulate General in Shanghai, Innovation Norway, the Norwegian Seafood Council, and the Norwegian Business Association, with the support of 25 Norwegian companies.

Varied activities and cultural performances showcasing the best of Norwegian culture and businesses in China, including a Norwegian market, lectures, seminars, workshops, exhibitions, music, and cultural activities will be held at the Inlet in Shanghai. Some highlights include the Norwegian tourism event on Wednesday, the "Norwegian Business in China 2024" report launch and a concert featuring multiple Norwegian artists on Thursday.