Norway, PH deepen ties on Constitution Day
By Andrea B. Ramos
Norway’s Constitution Day celebration in Manila underscored the growing partnership between Norway and the Philippines, with stronger cooperation emerging in maritime affairs, trade, sustainability, renewable energy, and peacebuilding.
Speaking before diplomats, government officials, business leaders, maritime stakeholders, and members of the Filipino-Norwegian community, Norwegian Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster emphasized the importance of preserving democratic values, international law, and a rules-based global order amid rising geopolitical uncertainties.
“In a world marked by growing uncertainty and conflict, these values should never be taken for granted,” Lyster said during the reception commemorating Norway’s 1814 Constitution, regarded as the world’s second-oldest living constitution.
This year’s celebration also highlighted the 78 years of formal diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Norway, a partnership that has steadily expanded across economic, maritime, and development cooperation.
Held in a venue reflecting Manila’s maritime heritage, the reception paid tribute to the deep and longstanding maritime relationship between the two nations. Norway remains one of the world’s leading maritime powers, while Filipino seafarers continue to play a vital role in global shipping operations.
Lyster noted that more than 60 percent of workers serving in Norway’s maritime fleet are Filipinos, reflecting the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries. He also cited the continued contribution of the Norwegian Training Center in helping train and upskill generations of Filipino maritime professionals.
Beyond manpower cooperation, the ambassador highlighted ongoing collaboration in advancing greener and more sustainable shipping practices, improving seafarers’ welfare, and promoting greater gender balance in the maritime industry.
Economic relations between the Philippines and Norway also continue to expand. According to Lyster, the EFTA-Philippines Free Trade Agreement has helped strengthen bilateral trade, while the Philippine-Norway Business Council continues to grow in both membership and influence.
Norwegian seafood exports to the Philippines reached record levels last year, alongside increasing Norwegian interest in renewable energy and circular economy investments in the country.
The ambassador likewise acknowledged Norway’s continuing role in supporting peace and reconciliation efforts in the Philippines, including its longstanding participation as a third-party facilitator in peace initiatives and partnerships promoting human rights and inclusive development.
As he prepares to conclude his four-year diplomatic posting in Manila, Lyster expressed gratitude to the Filipino people, the diplomatic community, business groups, civil society organizations, maritime stakeholders, academic institutions, and cultural partners for their support and friendship throughout his tenure.
“Your hospitality, warmth, and friendship have made our work and stay here a truly amazing experience,” he said.
The evening concluded with what Lyster described as the “first-ever indoor Constitution Day parade” in the Philippines, bringing a festive Norwegian tradition to Manila in celebration of the enduring friendship and shared values between Norway and the Philippines.
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