Friends come to say goodbye
Text: Kristian Ødegaard, Charge d’Affaires a.i., Embassy of Norway in Prague; Photo: Archive
I feel lucky to have met so many interesting personalities and characters during my months in Czechia. Thank you all for a great cooperation, many pleasant and giving conversations, and inspiring meetings with you. I also had the fortune of getting out of Praha, visiting many of the regions of Czechia. You have to get out of the capital to really understand a country. That is true also of Czechia. The view of Prague might be different from inside the city and from the more remote areas of this beautiful country.
I wish to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude for the warm welcome, unwavering support, and fruitful collaborations that I have experienced during my time here. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve in this vibrant country, and I am sincerely grateful for the meaningful relationships I have built with individuals, institutions, and organizations across Czech society.
My term in the Czech Republic has been an enriching journey marked by numerous opportunities to foster bilateral relations. From the very beginning, I was impressed by the Czech Republic’s rich history, cultural diversity, and commitment to democratic values. These qualities have made my diplomatic mission both inspiring and rewarding. The location of Czechia in the middle of Europe makes Praha an excellent observation tower for both European and global policies. The terrible war in Ukraine and a new president in the United States have of course influenced my tenure here.
The good cooperation between Norway and Czechia is based on shared values such as democracy, human rights, and sustainable development. This cooperation has only deepened over the past years. We are both parts of the European internal market, and the cooperation in the European Economic Area is extensive and wide. Through the EEA and Norway Grants programs we cooperate closely in research, education, environment, health, social affairs, civil society, and minorities rights (just to mention a few).
Throughout my appointment, I had the pleasure of engaging with Czech government officials, business leaders, academia, and civil society. These interactions have reinforced my belief in the importance of dialogue and cooperation in achieving common objectives. Likewise, I am grateful to the Norwegian companies and organizations operating in the Czech Republic for their dedication and contribution to economic ties and cultural exchange.
Cultural diplomacy has also played a vital role in my mission. I had the fortune of attending numerous events here such as those with Norwegian musicians, writers, and filmmakers, which contribute to building bridges that last beyond political and economic interests. I am proud of all these cultural events, exhibitions, and academic exchanges.
The many Norwegian students in Czechia and the many young Czechs studying the Norwegian language in Praha and Brno also contribute to building relations, as well as enhancing the understanding between our countries. These initiatives are investments in the future. The partnership between Czech and Norwegian universities encourages research, innovation, and shared learning.
Looking back, I feel lucky to have served in Prague during exciting times. The geopolitical shifts require continued collaboration and resilience. We live through a period in Europe and in the world with less predictability. Nobody knows what will happen tomorrow. To meet the challenges, we have to work together. It is not up to one leader to dictate to all the others. Diplomacy is probably more needed than ever, both in Europe and in the world.
In closing, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the kindness, trust, and camaraderie extended to me throughout my service here. To my colleagues in the diplomatic corps, government institutions, academia, and civil society, thank you for your partnership and support. To the citizens of the Czech Republic, thank you for embracing the Norwegian presence and making my time here truly special, both in the cities and towns, but also in the fabulous nature here.
I am confident that the strong bonds we have established will continue to flourish, contributing to peace, prosperity, and mutual understanding. I carry with me the fondest memories of my time here, and look forward to witnessing the continued friendship between our countries.