Envoy points to regional significance of upcoming Norwegian royal visit

AMMAN — The visit of King Harald V and Queen Sonja of the Kingdom of Norway to Jordan at the invitation of His Majesty King Abdullah, which starts on Monday, has "important" regional dimensions and reflects "distinguished" bilateral relations, Norwegian Ambassador Tone Allers said on Sunday.

The visit bears regional significance inasmuch as it is King Harald V’s first official visit to the Middle East, Allers told the Jordan News Agency, Petra, adding that regional developments and political issues will be featured heavily in the Jordanian-Norwegian talks. 

The ambassador added that the visit coincides with the 51st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations, and represents a "valuable opportunity" to enhance bilateral relations on various levels.

Norway "highly appreciates" Jordan’s efforts in dealing with regional issues, mainly the Palestinian cause, the envoy said, adding that Oslo is keen on sustaining coordination and consultation with Amman. 

She added that a high-level economic, political, social and cultural delegation will accompany the Norwegian king and queen, which highlights the fact that discussions will be "comprehensive and productive". 

Allers noted that representatives of 30 Norwegian companies working in the health, ICT, cancer care, renewable energy, tourism, culture and arts sectors will be part of the delegation and will participate in several events to be held on the sidelines of the visit.

The ambassador also reiterated her country's commitment to supporting Jordan in its humanitarian role towards refugees, noting that Oslo in 2019 offered some $28 million to help Amman in this regard.  

On the sidelines of the visit, an economic meeting will be held with the participation of both countries’ ministers of industry and trade to discuss means of enhancing economic and tourism cooperation, in addition to holding events on women’s empowerment, energy, culture and music, among others.