The aim of this website is to provide our readers with useful and hopefully interesting information about Norway, Norwegian-Greek and Norwegian-Cypriot relations and also to be of help to Norwegians visiting or living in Greece or Cyprus.
Diplomatic relations between Norway and Greece date back to 1918 . I am the 10th resident Ambassador of Norway to Greece since the embassy opened in 1974. Norway, Greece and Cyprus share many historical experiences and have among others a common history of shipping. In this field we are competitors, but we also share some common concerns and interests. Safe and environmentally friendly shipping is a priority in Norway's maritime policy.
During my three years here (i.e. since September 2006) I have gotten to know both Greece and Cyprus as two fascinating countries. I have met, and learnt from, so many friendly Greek and Cypriot citizens as well as resident compatriots. A large number of Norwegian tourists spend their vacation here. One of the tasks of the embassy is therefore to give appropriate assistance to Norwegian citizens in urgent need of help.
Supporting and organising cultural events is also a central part of the Embassy’s work. Cultural activities have the ability, in their own independent way, to enhance communication between people. They are tools for intercultural understanding and awareness.
In my view, environment may be the areas where the potential for partnerships between Norwegian, Greek and Cypriot actors is the most promising. Environment is also a key area for the contributions Norway gives to Greece and Cyprus through the European Economic Area Financial Mechanisms. This is a way for Norway to pay for its access to EUs Internal market.
We hope you will find the website useful. And if you have any suggestions for further improvement, we would appreciate to hear from you.
Sverre Stub
Ambassador