Saturday, June 20, 2026
Crimes

Norwegian Government Opens Consultation Period for New Gambling Act

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

The Norwegian Government has launched a consultation process on the country’s newly proposed Gambling Act. The consultation period will run until August 5th 2022 and is open to comments from all stakeholders.

The consultation period was officially launched by Norway’s Ministry of Culture and Gender Equality following the introduction of the new Gambling Act which is set to replace the existing Lottery Act, Totalizer Act, and the previous Gambling Act.

The new Gambling Act will consolidate the various aspects of the three existing acts into one piece of legislation while also introducing some new rules that are necessary as the industry has evolved to include iGaming.

One of those new changes is the introduction of fines for gambling operators who breach the rules of the Act. This is believed to be a direct attempt to penalize online operators who illegally operate in the country despite being unlicensed. As it stands, the only two online gambling operators in Norway are Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto.

The government previously introduced new rules in 2021 to combat this activity but the New Act is set to take those rules a step further.

According to the legislation, these ‘infringement fees could see regulator Lotteri-og Stiftelsestilsynet (Lotteritilsynet) fine illegal companies up to 10% of turnover if they breach the online gambling rules set out in the Act.

However, the Norwegian Industry Association for Online Gaming has criticized the legislation for not removing the monopoly on iGaming and allowing private companies to operate in Norway under license.

If approved, the new Gambling Act is set to come into force on 1 January, 2023.

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NATO and Norway

Finland wants to use the “NATO option”

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Accession to NATO has been discussed in Finland since 1995. Now the country could apply for membership as early as May. Finland is well prepared – and both sides would benefit, says Minna Ålander.

Russia’s attack on Ukraine has changed Finland’s security policy calculations. After the end of the Cold War, two principles were essential for Finnish foreign and security policy: maintaining good relations with Russia on the one hand, and a strong national defence capability on the other hand. The country wanted to be prepared for all eventualities with regard to its eastern neighbour. Already since the annexation of Crimea in 2014, Finland has increasingly strengthened various formats of defence cooperation: bilaterally in ever closer cooperation with Sweden and the US, trilaterally with Norway and Sweden, and by further developing the Nordic defence cooperation. Finland and Sweden are already NATO Enhanced Opportunity Partners. Both countries have a high level of interoperability with NATO structures, which would enable almost immediate operational readiness upon accession.

Historic U-turn in the NATO question

Ever since Finland’s EU accession in 1995, the possibility of NATO membership has also been discussed. Until February 2022 popular support had stagnated at around 20 per cent. Only two parties in the Finnish parliament supported membership: the National Coalition Party and the Swedish People’s Party (the party of the Swedish-speaking minority). Thus, the “NATO option”, a peculiar feature of Finnish foreign and security policy, remained the official line: The country saw no need for full membership but wanted to keep open the option of joining if the security situation changed. Since February, another four parties, including the governing Green Party, have announced their consent to joining NATO. The latest polls have also registered more than 60 per cent approval rates for NATO membership among the population.

On 20 April, the parliamentary debate began on the government report regarding the changed security situation – also called the “NATO Report” – published on 13 April. The Centre Party and the Social Democratic Party – both currently in the governing coalition – still have no official party line. However, their representatives have spoken out in very clear terms in favour of joining NATO. Even the Left Alliance, which has been the most reluctant to support membership, is not uniformly opposed. With the MPs alone who have already signalled their approval, Finland’s accession to the Alliance would have a parliamentary majority. The next step is consultation in the relevant committees.

Because no referendum will be held due to the dynamic situation, the highest possible level of parliamentary consensus is important – but not decisive. Ultimately, the president, together with the government, can initiate the accession process regardless of the status of the parliamentary process. Prime Minister Sanna Marin said at the beginning of the debate that now is the time for decisions. A recommendation from the government to the president to initiate the accession process can thus be expected as early as May.

Why Finland wants to join NATO now

The most important reason for Finland’s desire to go for the “NATO option” now is obvious: Russia as a neighbour can no longer be trusted. This eliminates a central argument that has so far kept Finland from joining: maintaining good relations with Russia. Another aspect that made NATO membership unpopular in Finland was the participation of NATO countries in controversial wars in Afghanistan and Iraq in the early 2000s. However, in view of the threat posed by Russia to the European security order, NATO is returning to its original function as a defence alliance, which is in Finland’s interest. Finland is also aware that it can obtain the security guarantee of NATO collective defence provided by Article 5 only as a full-fledged member. From Finland’s point of view, it makes sense to upgrade the already existing close partnership to full membership and to have a seat at the table where decisions concerning its national security are taken. Moreover, joining NATO is seen as the completion of Finland’s integration with the West.

Finland’s role in NATO

Although Finland is a country of only 5.5 million inhabitants, its armed forces are above average in European comparison. In the event of war, Finland can reach a troop strength of 280,000 and a total reserve strength of up to 870,000. This is because Finland, unlike many EU and NATO countries, never abolished conscription. Moreover, the Finnish armed forces are equipped with modern equipment: A recent example is the government decision of December 2021 to purchase 64 US F-35 fighter jets, which are also to be introduced in Germany. Furthermore, Finnish national defence is based on the “Comprehensive Security” concept, a cooperative security model that covers the civilian population and the economy as well. Finland was already close to meeting NATO’s 2 per cent defence spending target before Russia’s war of aggression and has since announced further substantial increases to its defence budget.

Finland is thus well prepared to defend its 1,343 km border with Russia and to repel any Russian attacks – most likely of a hybrid nature – that are expected to follow its NATO membership application. As a NATO member, Finland would significantly strengthen the regional defence of NATO’s northern flank and play a central role in the defence of the entire Baltic Sea region, including the Baltic States. Ideally, Finland and Sweden would apply for membership together. However, the national decisions will be taken independently of each other. Both sides would profit from Finland and Sweden joining the Alliance: The new members get the additional insurance of NATO’s security guarantee, and NATO gains considerable additional capacity in the Alliance’s northern dimension.

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Defence

Norway extends funding support for COU

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Norway has generously agreed to extend its financial support of the MFO’s Civilian Observer Unit (COU) in 2022.

During MFO Director General Beecroft’s visit to Oslo in early April, he met with representatives from the Norwegian Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defence. During these engagements, Director General Beecroft and Mr. Thomas Devold, Deputy Director of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Section for Security Policy and North America, signed a grant extension in support of the COU.

Norway has been assisting the MFO in the cause of peace since 1982. Originally, Norway was a troop-contributor and has also provided the MFO with four of our Force Commanders. Since 2007, the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has provided annual financial contributions towards the COU as well.

The MFO greatly appreciates Norway’s steadfast contributions in support of our vital work and the peace between Egypt and Israel.

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Asia and Norway

India’s biggest IPO attracts Norway wealth fund, GIC

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

India is in talks to sign up Norway’s sovereign wealth fund and GIC Pte as anchor investors for the country’s biggest initial public offering, according to people familiar with the matter, as the government presses ahead with the sale despite a volatile market.

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority is also among those in discussions to participate in Life Insurance Corporation of India’s first-time share sale, which could raise as much as 210bn rupees ($2.7bn), the people said, asking not to be identified as the information is private. 

BlackRock Inc and Fidelity have been approached as well, they added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration is looking to finalise the anchor investor list within days, the people said. Deliberations are ongoing and the investors could choose not to proceed, the people said. Representatives for ADIA, GIC and the Norwegian sovereign fund declined to comment, while representatives for BlackRock, Fidelity and the Indian finance ministry didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.

LIC’s IPO, which had previously been touted as India’s Aramco moment in reference to Gulf oil giant Saudi Arabian Oil Co’s $29.4bn listing in 2019, will test the depth of India’s capital market. Firms in India have raised about $1.1bn through IPOs this year, data compiled by Bloomberg show. That’s less than half of the nearly $3bn raised in the same period in 2021.

The Indian government plans to sell 221.4mn shares, or a 3.5% stake, at 902 rupees to 949 rupees each in LIC’s IPO. The offering opens for anchor investors on May 2. About 10% of the shares are reserved for LIC policyholders who will be able to buy them at a discount to the issue price. Retail investors can also buy shares at a discount.

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Russia and Norway

Russian Remembrance Day ceremonies in Norway to commemorate servicemen

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Russia marked the 77th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany on Monday.

A Remembrance Day wreath laying ceremony took place on 9 November at the War Graves Plot at Vestre Gravlund in Oslo at the monument to fallen Soviet soldiers with the participation of Russian Ambassador T. O. Ramishvili, Ambassador of Kazakhstan E. To. Akhinzhanova, Ambassador of Belarus D. L. Mironchika, Ambassador of Serbia D. Petrovichab of the Russian military attache A. V. Kosareva.

The events were attended by senior Defence personnel, together with number of Defence Attachés were also in attendance.

Wreaths were also laid by Ambassadors and representatives of several nations including Kazakhstan, Belarus and Serbia.

At the end of the ceremony, flowers were laid on the monument to the Yugoslav guerrillas killed in Norway, located at the same cemetery.

What did Putin say in Victory Day speech from Russia ?

His address centered on the ongoing war in Ukraine, which began following Russia’s invasion on February 24.

He said the invasion was the “only right decision” with a false claim that the West was “preparing for invasion of Russia.”

“NATO was creating tensions at the borders. They did not want to listen to Russia, they had other plans,” said Putin.

He claimed Russia was fighting for “the Motherland” in Donbas. “so that no one forgets the lessons of World War II.”

He promised support for the families of fallen soldiers. “The death of every soldier and officer is painful for us,” he said. “The state will do everything to take care of these families.”

What is Victory Day in Russia?

In Russia, “Victory Day,” as it is referred to in the post-Soviet era, was for decades a day of sorrowful remembrance. The Soviet Union lost millions of its citizens during World War II, and May 9 was a day to reflect upon that loss.

Yet, that has changed over the past several years. Increasingly, Putin has used the day to serve his own domestic purposes.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Monday Russia had “forgotten everything that was important to the victors of World War II.”

“Evil has returned, in a different uniform, under different slogans, but for the same purpose,” he warned.

Unlike in previous years, this time no foreign head of state will be a guest at the parade.

Western Allies celebrate Germany’s capitulation on May 8. The formal surrender in 1945 was intentionally timed to take place late on May 8 west of Moscow and at the stroke of midnight in Russia, granting the then-Soviet Union its own day of commemoration.

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China and Norway

From Norway to China by the Caspian Sea

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

This May, the South China Railway Express will be extended to the port of Narvik in northern Norway. This multimodal service is an integration of existing routes, namely the Middle Corridor across the Caspian and Black Sea and the new line from Finland to Norway, which opened in late April.

Specifically, the route departs from Zhengzhou and travels via the Middle Corridor to the Romanian port of Constanta on the Black Sea coast, where goods are reloaded to trucks or trains and continue to Finland.

The recently opened new line connects the port of Narvik in northern Norway with Haparanda/Tornio on the Swedish/Finnish border. The link operates every two weeks, with CargoNet taking over the Narvik to Haparanda/Tonio section. Nurminen Logistics will be responsible for operations and freight forwarding from the Swedish/Finnish border to the Finnish capital Helsinki. The estimated transit time is 22-27 days.

Finland-Russia traffic

In March of this year, Finnish logistics company Nurminen Logistics and Kazakhstan Railways signed a commercial agreement on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Line (also known as the Middle Corridor or the South Corridor between Europe and China). The two sides plan to launch test trains on the route between April and June.

Finland’s state-run railway company VR Group decided earlier this month to gradually suspend rail freight traffic between Finland and Russia. This also has implications for private companies, making Europe-China traffic via Russia more complicated. The cooperation with Kazakhstan Railways and the integration of the two services may offer some valuable solutions.

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Economics

Norwegian trio to develop ‘offshore hydrogen factories’

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Moreld, which is owned by HitecVision, Arendals Fossekompani, an industrial investment company focusing on green energy, and Norwegian conglomerate Kongsberg said the aim of the concept is to solve several challenges related to the development and upscaling of offshore wind.

Together they have formed a company to develop hydrogen substations, Hydepoint AS, which will be owned equally by the companies. Hydepoint will be developed primarily as a floating concept that can easily be scaled in size and capacity.

Moreld will provide offshore infrastructure solutions; Kongsberg will provide power management expertise; and Arendals Fossekompani will provide expertise in the power market, including through its portfolio company Volue.

The collaboration is based on an initiative from entrepreneur Kjell Johannessen, a former leader of the oil and gas cluster NODE, and leader of the Green Energy Network.

Arendals Fossekompani executive vice president Morten Henriksen said, “Hydepoint is a complete solution for receiving, converting and transmitting all of the energy potential in an offshore windfarm, with reduced dependence on the grid. Installed offshore, close to windfarms, Hydepoint can convert all or part of the energy produced into green hydrogen. This will reduce the need to scale-up the power grid.”

The Norwegian companies said further development of offshore wind – including the upcoming licensing round in Norway – will require significant strengthening of the power grid. Partial or full conversion of the energy produced to hydrogen will reduce the need for grid investment and increase production of green hydrogen, for which demand is growing.

“Demand for hydrogen is already significant,” said Mr Henriksen. “It is utilised directly in industry and will also be used for production of energy carriers such as ammonia and synthetic LNG. Green hydrogen produced using renewable energy will replace grey hydrogen, which is based on natural gas. This will have a positive environmental effect both in the short term and long term. One of the challenges associated with wind power is variable production. With more offshore wind in the energy mix, at times, production is likely to exceed the capacity of transmission systems and the onshore power grid.”

Kongsberg chief executive Geir Håøy said, “For offshore wind to work it is crucial to ensure attractive and robust solutions for energy conversion, storage, and management. Hydepoint will contribute to solving these challenges by allowing surplus power to be converted directly to hydrogen offshore.”

Moreld chief executive Geir Austigard said, “Hydepoint will offer fully developed substations that will reduce costs and delivery time.”

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Asia and Norway

Modi meets Norwegian counterpart, reviews bilateral relations

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Store in Copenhagen on Wednesday and reviewed the ongoing activities in bilateral relations and discussed future areas of cooperation.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the second India-Nordic Summit in Copenhagen. This was the first meeting between the two leaders since the assumption of office by Prime Minister Store in October 2021.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, “Both Prime Ministers reviewed the ongoing activities in bilateral relations and discussed future areas of cooperation.”

Prime Minister Modi highlighted that Norway’s skills and India’s scope provided natural complementarities.

Copenhagen, May 04 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Norway PM Jonas Gahr Støre on the sidelines of the 2nd India Nordic Summit, in Copenhagen on Wednesday. (ANI Photo/PIB)

Both leaders discussed the potential for deepening engagement in areas like Blue Economy, renewable energy, green hydrogen, solar and wind projects, green shipping, fisheries, water management, rainwater harvesting, space cooperation, long term Infrastructure investment, health and culture.

Discussions also took place on regional and global developments.

As members of UNSC, India and Norway have been engaging with each other in the UN on global issues of mutual interest.

Modi is on a three-day visit to Germany, Denmark and France, which started from May 2 aimed at further strengthening bilateral cooperation. It is the Prime Minister’s first visit abroad in 2022.

On Tuesday, Modi held a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen and discussed a wide range of issues, including regional and global matters.

The two leaders held talks in a one-on-one format, followed by delegation level talks.

Both Prime Ministers reviewed progress of the India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership. Discussions covered cooperation in renewable energy, especially offshore wind energy and green hydrogen, as well as skill development, health, shipping, water and the Arctic, among others.

The Prime Minister appreciated the positive contribution of Danish companies in India to flagship programmes. Prime Minister Frederiksen highlighted the positive role of Indian companies in Denmark.

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Killing

Norwegian man found dead in Pattaya house

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

An elderly Norwegian man was found dead in the bathroom of a house in Bang Lamung district east of Pattaya late on Saturday night. He was believed to have committed suicide, police said.

Pol Capt Manod Thipvej, a Bang Lamung police investigator, said police, rescue workers and forensic experts went to house No 112/69, a one-storey townhouse, at Moo 11 village in tambon Nong Prue after being alerted to the death at 11.30pm.

In the bathroom they found the body of the 74-year-old man hanging by the neck from a red rope tied to the ceiling. There were cuts in both of his wrists, a leg and the neck. The bathroom floor was covered in blood.

A message written in red, “BEN KILLED ME I WILL BE ONE GHOST IN THE HOUSE 100%”, was found on the bathroom wall.

A piece of paper with the same message, written in red, was found on the bathroom floor.

Tassawan Siwirit, 43, the housekeeper, said the man had often complained about an illness and once talked about taking his own life.

Late on Saturday night, she knocked on the door, but nobody answered. She went into the house and found the man dead in the bathroom. She called the police.

Pol Capt Manod said there were no traces of a struggle in the house. Experts from the Chon Buri forensic department were examining the handwritten messages on the wall and the piece of paper.

The body was sent to a hospital for an autopsy.

Two forensic police officers collect evidence at the house of a Norwegian man found dead in Bang Lamung district of Chon Buri province on Saturday. (Photo: Chaiyot Pupattanapong)
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Sports

Norwegian woman climbs second 8,000m peak in 10 days

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

A Norwegian woman, who wants to climb all 14 peaks above 8,000m in a shorter time, today successfully scaled Mt Dhaulagiri (8,167m), expedition organizers said.

Pemba Sherpa, managing director at 8K Expedition, shared that Kristin Harila, a 36 year old professional athlete from Norway, stood atop Mt Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh highest peak, at around 11:00am this morning.

On April 28, Kristin scaled Mt Annapurna I, the tenth highest peak in the world, beginning her mission to climb all 14 peaks above 8,000m in just 6 months.

Kristin was accompanied by Dawa Ongju Sherpa, Mingma Thenduk Sherpa and Pasdawa Sherpa to the top of Mt Dhaulagiri, Sherpa said, adding that she would leave for Mt Kanchenjunga after returning from Dhaulagiri in a day or two.

In May 2021, Kristin set a world record becoming the fastest woman to climb Mt Everest and Mt Lhotse in less than twelve hours. “Her expeditions and success in previous summit attempts has inspired her to embark upon her latest challenge, ‘Bremont 14 Peaks’, a monumental effort to become the first woman in history and the second person ever to climb all 14 peaks above 8,000m in just 6 months smashing the record set by Nirma Purja (Nims Dai),” reports said.

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Russia and Norway

On the eve of Victory Day, a festive concert was held at the school in Oslo

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

On May 6, a solemn event timed to coincide with Victory Day was held at the school at the Embassy of Russia in Norway.

The event was attended by many students with the Speech by Ambassador of the Russian Federation in Norway Teymuraz Ramishvili at the opening ceremony of the concert with the participants and the audience with Ambassador of Kazakhstan E. To. Akhinjanov.

( Photos Russian Embassy in Norway Facebook )

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Spy War

Norway to Introduce New Border Act on May 1

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

The Norwegian government has decided to bring into effect the new Border Act from May 1, which aims to help the country to better manage its border controls.

In addition, according to the announcement of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, the authorization for the collection and use of passenger list information (PNR) has also been introduced, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.

The Act replaces the National Borders Act of 1950 and replaces the rules on border crossing and entry and exit control of persons in the Immigration Act.

“In order to combat terrorism and other serious crime, the government now ensures that PST, the police, the customs service and the Intelligence Service have access to potentially important information about passengers that the airlines are in possession of. This is information that EU countries are already collecting. Therefore, it is important that the Norwegian authorities also get the tools they need to fight terrorism and other serious crime,” the Minister of Justice and Emergency Management, Emilie Mehl, pointed out.

There are strict rules for the use of PNR information in order to protect the privacy of the persons. According to authorities in Norway, the PNR information is used for cases of terrorist acts and serious crimes. In addition, the statement of Norway’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security notes that the information must be de-identified after six months and not stored for a period of more than five years.

In accordance with the Border Act, regulations have also been introduced for the control of passengers to and from Norway’s Svalbard. Such a decision means that the governor has the opportunity to carry out ID checks for persons travelling to and from Svalbard by plane or boat.

According to the announcement of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, during the initial phase, the control will be sporadic and focused at first on charter flights that come directly to Svalbard from aboard.

“It is necessary to establish personal control also on Svalbard so that we are better equipped to prevent, among other things, cross-border crime, safeguard public order and other national needs, and ensure the fulfilment of our international obligations,” the Minister of Justice and Emergency Management pointed out in this regard.

The Minister stressed that together with the government’s proposal to introduce control of the movement of goods as well as to go from Svalbard, this would help the country’s authorities to better control the archipelago.

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Media Freedom

Norse Atlantic Airways launches between Norway and the United States

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Norse Atlantic Airways has opened ticket sales for flights between Norway and the United States with the full launch of www.flynorse.com. This marks a milestone for the company and heralds a new era for consumers seeking good value, choice and friendly service when choosing to travel across the Atlantic.

Fares will start from an unprecedented NOK 995 and $129 one-way, including all applicable taxes. The first flight departing from Oslo to New York (JFK) will take place on 14th June. The airline will also serve Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Orlando (MCO) and Los Angeles (LAX) from Oslo.

“This is a major milestone for all of us at Norse Atlantic Airways and a testament to the dedication and determination of colleagues from across the airline who have made this possible. Norse now offers the lowest one-way point to point transatlantic fares in the market. Whether travelling on business, leisure or simply wishing to explore the world, Norse now makes it possible for everyone to explore for less. Our modern, comfortable and more environmentally friendly Boeing 787 Dreamliners are ready to take to the skies and our pilots and cabin crew are looking forward to welcoming customers on board from June,” said Bjorn Tore Larsen, CEO of Norse Atlantic Airways.

From today customers will also be able to book flights between Oslo, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and Los Angeles.

  • Flights from Oslo to New York will commence on June 14th ramping up to daily flights from 4th July, with one-way fares starting from NOK 995.
  • Flights from Oslo to Fort Lauderdale will commence on 18th June operating three weekly flights with one-way fares starting from NOK 1497.
  • Flights between Oslo and Orlando will commence on 5th July operating three weekly flights, one-way fares start from NOK 1497.
  • Flights from Oslo to Los Angeles will commence om 9th August operating three weekly flights with one-way fares starting from NOK 1797.

“The introduction of affordable Norse Atlantic Airways point-to point flights between Europe and the United States, will benefit both local tourism and businesses. Not only are we directly investing in the countries that we operate by employing local staff we are also supporting job creation across the wider tourism and service industry”, continued Bjorn Tore Larsen.

Norse Atlantic offers two cabin choices, Economy and Premium. Passengers can choose from a simple range of fares, Light, Classic and Plus, that reflect the way that they want to travel, and which options are important to them. Light fares represent Norse’s value option while Plus fares include the maximum baggage allowance, two meal services an enhanced airport and onboard experience and increased ticket flexibility.

The large and spacious Boeing 787 Dreamliner cabin offers passengers a relaxed and comfortable travel experience with each seat including a personal state of the art entertainment experience. Our Premium cabin offers an industry leading 43” seat pitch and 12” recline allowing passengers to arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and ready to explore their destination.

For more information and to book please visit www.flynorse.com

  • Routes and fares from London and Paris to the United States will be announced soon.
  • More destinations in the United States will be announced soon.Fri, Apr 29, 2022 10:30 CET Report this content
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Asia and Norway

Holi 2022 Oslo

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Holi 2022: India celebrates Norway’s first ÓSLO COLOUR FESTIVAL´ on 7 May 2022 at Valhall Arena in Oslo.

Spring is in the air. Holi, a festival of colors, is celebrated throughout  India in various ways. However we will all agree that it is a time of joy, hope, love, carefreeness and unity. Join us on the 7th May 2022, from 13.00 for Norway’s largest Oslo Color Festival. 

The Oslo Color Festival is the first of its kind in Norway, with over 2500 attendees, more than 250 volunteers, and hundreds of performers is by far the largest Holi celebration in Norway, and perhaps even in Scandinavia. The event is organized by the Indian diaspora with the endorsement of the Embassy of India, Norway. We are proud to mention that just within a few days of opening the booking, all the tickets were sold out. 

India, with its diverse languages, dress, food and cultures is connected together by Color. Regardless of whether we come from the remotest village in Northern India to the southernmost tip of our peninsular country, we all share a common understanding of what different colors mean to us. Today we celebrate that unity in diversity. Holi festival brings that joy and understanding, bringing play, laughter and happiness with its myriad of bright colors. 

In the celebration of Oslo Color Festival, today with first, second, third generation Indians and native Norwegians, we wish to show integration and unity while embracing our diversity. Color enriches all our lives, and with spring comes the color of flowers and nature. They all blend in together and create a beautiful picture spreading joy and happiness all around. That is what the Oslo Color Festival is all about; our ambition is to show how beautiful our world is with seemingly contrasting colors side by side, beauty in diversity.

The cultural program is also a reflection of these underlying values, including at least 17 different states, with their dress, food, dance and music. Collaborations & synergy with the Indian diaspora with the rest of the world is an integral part of being Indian. We bring an exciting and enriching cultural experience through this event. 

There are mouth watering food stands, a childrens’ fashion show with dresses from all over India, from North to South, East to West. 

The organization committee aims to bring this amazing colorful event to you every year, showcasing the Indian diaspora’s engagement, contribution and integration into Norwegian society. The level of commitment can be gauged by the fact that such a huge event has come into existence without any financial support from the government of Norway or any other official body. This event is entirely self financed through ticket sales and corporate sponsors and should the event get any profit, that will be donated to charity organizations. 

We have a dedicated organization committee and their huge team of volunteers who have worked day and night to make this event one of a kind, to bring cultural experiences like those you would not have experienced before in Norway by the Indian community for all of us.

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Russia and Norway

Norway closes ports, borders to Russia

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Norway will close its ports and borders to Russian goods traffic, said the local media on Friday. 

The decision was taken in line with the latest EU sanctions, Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt told public broadcaster NRK.

The closure of the seaports takes effect on May 7, while the border closed on Friday, according to NRK.

NRK said fishing vessels will be exempted from the decision unless they are owned by individuals who are subjected to sanctions.

Huitfeldt stressed that Svalbard Archipelago in the Arctic Sea will also not be included in the sanctions in line with the 1925 Svalbard Treaty.

Norway does not expect a reaction from Russia, he added.

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Russia and Norway

Russia laid flowers to the graves of Soviet prisoners in Norway

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Five soviet prisoners of war were executed at this spot just days before the liberation of Norway.

The Germans sent captured soldiers from the Eastern Front to Norway to use as slave labourers.

The Nazi invasion of the U.S.S.R came as a surprise to the Soviets, and as a result, several Red Army soldiers were captured in 1941.

A significant number of these were sent to different parts of Axis-held territory to be used as labourers.

About 100,000 of these soldiers were sent to Norway, and around 2,000 to 3,000 soldiers ended up in Kristiansand.

The prisoners were first ordered to dig their own graves, then told to strip naked. Finally, they were ordered to kneel down.

Remarkably, the soldiers ordered to carry out the execution by Glomb refused, saying they had not received orders from their camp commandant. Glomb, therefore, ended up doing it himself.

Of the roughly 100,000 Russian prisoners in Norway, about 15,000 never returned home. But the fact that the soldiers refused to fire, as well as the fact that the executions were carried out only days before the liberation of Norway, makes this a unique place.

At the location of the former camp, there is a memorial plaque, as well as two Russian Orthodox crosses marking the graves of the prisoners who were killed.

On May 3, the Russian Embassy employees laid flowers on the graves of Soviet Prisoners Major Pavel Yasnov and Senior Sergeant Alexander Nazarov in the space of the military burial in the city of Fredrikstad.

On May 3, the embassy ambassadors laid flowers down on the graves of Soviet war prisoners Major Pavel Jasnov and Senior Sergeant Aleksandr Nasarov at the military cemetery in Fredrikstad.

( Photos Russian Embassy in Norway Facebook )

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Russia and Norway

Russia Puts on Stop-List Individuals from Norway

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Russia imposes an entry ban for nine individuals from Iceland, 16 Norwegians, three persons from Greenland and three – from the Faroe Islands in retaliation for their joining the anti-Russian sanctions of the European Union, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement released on Friday.

“Since Iceland, Norway, the Danish autonomies of Greenland and the Faroe Islands have joined the anti-Russian sanctions of the European Union, which also include personal restrictions against Russian officials, reciprocal measures were taken against nine representatives of Iceland, 16 Norwegian representatives, three representatives of Greenland and three – of the Faroe Islands,” the statement added.

The Foreign Ministry specified that the blacklist includes parliamentarians, members of the government, representatives of the business and academic circles, media as well as some public figures advancing anti-Russian rhetoric and taking part in shaping and conducting policy aimed against Russia.

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Media Freedom

Norway support new ICC strategy on Libya

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

The following Members of the Security Council that are States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC): Albania, Brazil, Gabon, Ghana, France, Ireland, Norway, the United Kingdom, and Mexico have expressed their support for the new strategy announced by the Prosecutor of the ICC on Libya.

“We support the Prosecutor’s reinvigorated approach and the development of a renewed strategy for action in relation to the Libya situation, which includes an updated investigative roadmap with four identified immediate-term investigative priorities: 2011 crimes, crimes committed in detention facilities, crimes related to military operations 2014 – 2020, and crimes against migrants”, they said in a joint statement.

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Russia and Norway

Russia Expels 3 Norwegian Diplomats in Retaliatory Move

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

The move was in response to Norway’s “unjustified” expulsion of three Russian diplomats on April 6, according to the Foreign Ministry, Al-Jazeera reported.

The ministry said it summoned Norwegian Ambassador Rune Resaland to hand over a diplomatic note and lodge a protest over Norway’s actions against Russian diplomats.

Russia also conveyed its objections over Norway’s weapons deliveries to Ukraine and “the cover-up by Oslo of the crimes of Ukrainian nationalists against the civilian population of Donbass and Ukraine”.

It was conveyed that such “unfriendly” steps by Norwegian authorities are “causing serious damage to bilateral relations”, the ministry said.

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Asia and Norway

Iran, Norway stress expanding ties

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian described the long history of political relations between Iran and Norway as an important support for the relations between the two countries, emphasizing the need for the expansion of political, trade and parliamentary relations between Iran and Norway.

He also described the participation of Iranians living in Norway in various political, economic and scientific scenes of the country as a valuable asset for strengthening the relations between nations and developing relations between the two countries.

The Iranian top diplomat also explained Iran’s positions towards the developments in Ukraine and the region, including security and stability in the Persian Gulf and Afghanistan, and the situation of Yemen.

Henrik Thune, for his part, described the development of diplomatic contacts with Iran as one of the important priorities of Norwegian foreign policy in the region.

The two sides considered the meeting of the two countries’ political consultations at the level of the deputy foreign ministers as a good opportunity to promote mutual understanding and interaction.

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Asia and Norway

India inks MoU with Norway’s clean energy

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Equinor ASA, the Norwegian state-owned multinational energy company in New Delhi for collaboration and partnership in areas of Exploration and Production and Clean energy options.

The MoU was signed during the visit of a high-level delegation of Norway to India.

Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri, Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt, ONGC CMD Dr Alka Mittal and Executive Vice President of Equinor Irene Rummelhoff were present on the occasion, an official statement said.

Equinor is the leading operator on the Norwegian continental shelf, present in around 30 countries worldwide.

As per the agreement, both ONGC and Equinor will collaborate with each other in the field of upstream oil and gas, midstream, marketing and trading, besides exploring further options in low carbon fuel, renewables, Carbon Capture Storage (CCS) as well as Carbon Capture Utilization and Sequestration (CCUS) opportunities in India, the statement said.

The MoU is valid for two years under which both companies have agreed to work together in the areas identified, the statement further said. (ANI)

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Asia and Norway

Missionary children tell their versions, now documented by Lene Ask´s cartoons.

by Geir Yeh Fotland
written by Geir Yeh Fotland

Like Kari Grasmos paintings in 1989, the book creates strong emotions and reflection.

Lene Ask (b. 1974) is a writer and illustrator. She is a photographer, illustrator, cartoonist and writer for many books. Her first book in 2006 was printed in 50000 copies.

Lene Ask has addressed ten former missionary children in her last book. There is strong evidence of guilt, bullying, neglect and abuse. The book received two-page reviews in several newspapers in Norway. The book looks innocent, but contains explosives. No other nation has had as many missionaries in relation to population as Norway. Many of the missionaries who traveled had children. The children were often placed in their own boarding schools under the auspices of the mission, far away from their parents.

  • – When I was a child, Lene Ask tells,  – I attended sunday school where I listened to stories about the brave missionaries; the ones who traveled to countries with exotic names like Madagascar or Cameroon to tell about Jesus. In my book ”Abide with me” I have interviewed 10 people who grew up in the shadow of their parent´s missionary call. They lived in boarding schools far away from their parents. Their stories is about longing, loneliness, alienation and, sometimes, abuse. I have collected their stories and illustrated their words. This is the untold story of a missionary history told from the children`s perspective.
  • – Before I draw, Lene Ask continues, – I first create text. the text comes before the illusions. I can´t plan what to draw. But when I have the text, there may be some void I fill out with drawings.

In many countries, local schools were difficult for foreigners. Before internatinal schools were started, missionaries may have left their children in an orphanage or by relatives back home. Later, Norwegian mission organizations started their own boarding schools so the children could see their parents more often. But bad roads and far distance made it not easy to travel. Sometimes parents were placed far out on the countryside or even in an other country. Many children saw their parents only twice a year. Others could live in the same city as the school.

The Norwegian school in Taiwan started in Pingtung in 1966. It was later moved to Taichung and closed down in the beginning of the 1990s.

A problem with international schools, exams from junior high schools abroad were not accepted for admission to high schools in Norway. Therefore after junior high school, students had to go to the USA for studies. So in 1966 a Norwegian school was started in Taiwan in cooperation with the school office in Oslo. But even the school got a qualified Norwegian teacher, the first years exams from the school was not accepted by high schools in Norway. Back then only exams from junior high school in Norway was accepted. 

Mission journals wrote positive stories about the missionary families. Negative stories, but never about children. were only published when the mission needed more money.

In 1987 special teacher Inger Kristine Løge went to Taiwan as a teacher for the Norwegian boarding school in Taichung. Soon she found out, special educational assistance was needed as direct measures for the children and guidance of parents and teachers. She contacted the other 3 Norwegians schools in Asia (Nepal, Hongkong and Japan). and found out, they also needed special educational assistance.  

In the school year 1988-89, she completed a project and became a traveling special education teacher for 130 students and about 20 teachers in four schools.

Never before has anyone put the spotlight on the missionary school’s schooling.

  • – The Norwegian children in Asia has the same problems as children in Norway, teacher Løge told her local newspaper Jærbladet. – They struggle with social and emotional problems as in Norway. But schools abroad do not have the same opportunity to receive guidance and help if necessary.

In the autumn of 1988, Thorkild Andersen initiated a gathering of missionary children to discuss growing up. He was left as a child in an orphanage in Stavanger while his parents were missionaries in Madagascar.

In 1989, child psychiatrist Siri Rynning asked whether families with children should travel as missionaries. – The mission organizations should take this question very seriously, she told the newspaper Vårt Land in February 1989.

A few days later, Vårt Land released the story of Kari Grasmo who paints herself out of vicious missionary childhood memories from the Norwegian boarding school in Japan. This started a greater ”Me Too” movement and many articles in different media in Norway. One of the school owners invited former students of the school to a conference where psychiatrist Siri Rynning took up 3 subjects:

– two-culture issues,

– separation parents child.

– sexual abuse.

Former students then started an interest organization (NORUT) for all children of Norwegians abroad. Kari Grasmo released a booklet with her paintings called Barneskjebner (Child destinies). Berit Dahl wrote the book Bortsent (Sent away) about her childhood in Madagascar. Some members started courses for organizations that send families abroad. Missionary organizations paid for psychiatric therapy, but little in redress. No abusers were punished.

But in September 2013,  one of the interview objects in Lene Ask‘s book went to court against the missions that owned the boarding school in Taiwan where she felt sexually abused by a male teacher in 1988-89 while teacher Løge was visiting other schools in Asia.  The former student in Taiwan accused the missions of neglect, abuse and lack of follow-up.

Instead of supporting her, they put the responsibility on parents who sent their children to boarding school, even most parents had no choice of school. But the mission leadership and the father of the second interviewee from Taiwan believed that parents have a responsibility when traveling abroad with children. The case was amicably settled.

When most of the boarding schools had closed down, so did the organization NORUT.  Still, many feel it was a mental assault being separated from mother and father. Mission boards may have the moral responsibility, they do not take the consequence of it.  

Therefore this year, 2022, some missionary children are planning a collective lawsuit against one of the missions.

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About the same time as Abide With Me was released in Norway, the book Sent was released in USA. It is about reflections on missions, boarding schools and childhood. The front cover shows two 1. grade students ( a Norwegian and an American) in 1958 waiting at the train station in Pingtung, Taiwan, for a ride to the American boarding school in Chiayi. They had to change train in Kaohsiung by themselves, no adults looked after them on the journey.

Abide With Me is not yet released in English, but an English translation is planned to be presented at Taipei International Book Exhibition in June this year.

Geir Yeh Fotland, reporter. formosa1951@gmail.com

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Russia and Norway

Norway to allocate NOK 400 mln for Ukraine

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Norway will allocate NOK 400 million (about $43.5 million at the current exchange rate) for the British-led mechanism to purchase weapons and military equipment for Ukraine, said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

“The government also informs the Storting today that we will propose to allocate NOK 400 million to the British-led mechanism for the purchase of arms and military equipment for Ukraine. This gives us the opportunity to provide Ukraine with equipment that the Norwegian Armed Forces themselves do not have or have the ability to dispose of without weakening Norwegian defense capabilities,” Støre said in a statement published on the Norwegian government website Tuesday.

The prime minister noted that Ukrainian forces would need more weapons in the near future to counter attacks in the east and south.

“They will need heavier and more sophisticated weapon systems. Norway is doing its part. We have handed over a large amount of personal clothing and equipment needed to equip all those mobilized to defend Ukraine. We handed over 4,000 M72 anti-tank missiles and about 100 Mistral anti-aircraft missiles,” Støre said.

The prime minister pointed out that these weapons have arrived and have been transferred to Ukrainian forces.

“We are working closely with Ukraine and its allies to ensure good coordination of arms deliveries. Additional direct shipments of heavy weapons from Norway to Ukraine are being evaluated on an ongoing basis and are being implemented. For security reasons, we do not discuss such support publicly until the deliveries are made,” he explained.

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Asia and Norway

Dhaka, Oslo keen to enhance economic partnership

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Dhaka and Oslo are keen to broaden economic partnership through trade, investment and maritime sector cooperation while Bangladesh and Norway are celebrating 50 years of the bilateral relations.

The two countries expressed this interest at a bilateral meeting between Bangladesh foreign minister Dr. AK Abdul Momen and his visiting Norwegian counterpart Annekin Huitfeldt in the capital last evening, a foreign ministry Bangladesh press release said here today.

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The newly appointed Norwegian foreign minister is on a two-day visit to Bangladesh marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries this year.

During the meeting, the two foreign ministers discussed in particular the potentials of investments in offshore renewable energy.

The Bangladesh foreign minister briefed his Norwegian counterpart about measures taken in building safety and green production facilities in the RMG sector.

The Norwegian minister also showed interest in the ship breaking industry and enquired about Bangladesh’s plans concerning ratifying the Hong Kong Convention.

Momen gave an overview of the humanitarian crisis involving Myanmar’s forcibly displaced Rohingya.

Huitfeldt appreciated Bangladesh’s hospitality on humanitarian grounds and acknowledged the priority the Rohingya themselves attached to their safe and dignified repatriation to Myanmar.

Earlier in the day, the Norwegian foreign minister visited the Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar.

The two foreign ministers touched upon preparations for the next general elections in Bangladesh.

They also underscored the overriding priority for an effective ceasefire in Ukraine and expressed concern over the humanitarian situation.

Later, the two foreign ministers joined a reception hosted by the Norwegian Ambassador to Bangladesh to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

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Defence

Romania grounds its fleet of MiG-21 LanceR military aircraft

by Nadarajah Sethurupan
written by Nadarajah Sethurupan

Romania has grounded its fleet of MiG-21 LanceR military aircraft due to their significantly high accident rate and intends to speed up a planned purchase of used F-16s from Norway, Reuters reported.

The country’s defense ministry said Romania will continue to use its small fleet of F-16 fighter jets acquired from Portugal, while allied nations have also deployed aircraft to the country for air defense missions as part of NATO’s efforts to strengthen its eastern flank.

Romania bought its first F-16s from Portugal in 2016 as the country works to phase out MiGs. The ministry said it would speed up the process of purchasing an additional 32 F-16s from Norway.

The last accident involving the MiG-21 occurred in early March. A patrol plane crashed, killing the pilot. Seven soldiers sent to search for him in a search and rescue helicopter also died in another accident.

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