Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Førner took note that the new office promotes a more open environment, which creates an effective communication among staff. The office also offers the finest facilities, modern and new technology, spacious meeting rooms and better internet connection for a more efficient office operations and delivery of services.

“We are very proud of our new office. I think the most important thing we have achieved in the layout is the openness where the barriers between diplomats and staff are reduced significantly”, said Ambassador Erik Førner.

Mr. Gunneng said that the transfer of the Embassy to the Bonifacio Global City marks a new chapter in the longstanding and good bilateral relationship between the Philippines and Norway. He also noted that the investments in a new Embassy is another strong signal of Norway?s long term commitment to the Philippines, as well as to the ASEAN community.

The first full-fledged Embassy was established in 1967 in Damarinas Village. Since then, bilateral relations between the Philippines and Norway have continued to develop and strengthen with the maritime sector in full force and other areas of cooperation have grown.

?Norway has a long term perspective in the Philippines. As other countries may come and go, we stay,? said Ambassador Førner.

The ceremony incorporated the traditional ways of inauguration in the Philippines such as the blessing of facilities by a priest and the throwing of coins to signify continued success. Numerous guests were present to witness the inauguration such as Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, members of the diplomatic corps, Philippine and Norway business sector stakeholders and representatives from the government.

Kilde / Source: Royal Norwegian Embassy, The Philippines: www.norway.ph