BY NOORA DABBAGH
Considered as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, Norway has all the elements in its midst: ice, snow, water, farmlands, and wild landscapes. Whatever Norwegian adventure you choose, this country leaves you a lasting impression of greatness.
Norway has had diplomatic representation in Saudi Arabia since 1961. Fifteen years later, in 1976, the Royal Norwegian Embassy was established in Jeddah, and moved to Riyadh in 1985. The bilateral relations were enhanced through the establishment of the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Oslo in 2012. This high level of cooperation has been crucial in aligning key matters such as stability in the Middle East, the oil and gas industry, and social government programs.
Saudi Arabia and Norway are both global key players in the oil and gas industry and share valuable expertise and know how in the field. Norway’s oil and gas exports contribute to over 50% of its total exports whereas in the case of Saudi Arabia the figure is closer to 70%. Both countries are gaining experience in the renewable energy fields.
Norway is a global supplier of seafood, as the unique landscape gives Norway the competitive advantage in fishing and exporting seafood. Norway is Europe’s primary seafood exporter, the largest Atlantic Salmon exporter worldwide, and is proudly the second largest global exporter of seafood worldwide, second only to China. This industry is promoted in Saudi Arabia through the various seafood and food festivals that the Embassy hosts throughout the year. Moreover, inspired by Vision 2030, the Norwegian mission actively takes part part in promoting and spreading awareness about the benefits of a healthy seafood rich diet for all citizens.
Sea and Seafood
The unique combination of nature, culture and management gives Norwegian seafood a world-class position in terms of quality, tradition and sustainability. The Norwegian seafood culture contributes to both good health and great cuisine.
This is something also the world has discovered. Every day, more than 34 million meals of Norwegian seafood are served in more than 140 different countries across the globe. The seafood industry represents one of Norway’s largest export industries after petroleum.
The production of Norwegian seafood has evolved in terms of technology, experience and knowledge, but it has never lost a sense of respect for the environment, the sea or the people. Norwegian fisheries combine generations of hard-earned fishing experience with the latest technology. Norwegian Salmon is raised in the cold, clear waters of Norway. Not only is Norwegian Salmon’s delicious taste popular with all ages, it is packed with proteins, Omega-3, vitamins and minerals, making it a highly nutritious choice.
Salmon is the dominant and most important species in Norwegian aquaculture. Norway is the world’s largest producer of Atlantic salmon, and it accounts for about 70 % of Norwegian seafood exports. Each day 14 million meals of Norwegian Salmon are served worldwide. Norway exports salmon to more than 100 countries around the world.
Do you want to know more? See www.seafood.no
Where To Go
1. In between the majestic mountains and fjords of the Lofoten Islands, you will find picturesque traditional fishing towns filled with local and unique cuisines.
2. Experience the bustling art scene, with museums and galleries, as well as the historic Hanseatic Wharf of Bryggen in Bergen.
3. Tromso, the “capital of the Artic,” features a wonderful view of the famed Northern lights.
4. You can enjoy nature at its best at the Salvbard Islands, the northernmost group of islands in Europe.
5. The Geirangerfjord is surrounded by snow-covered mountain peaks, wild waterfalls and lush, green vegetation. This tranquil paradise is a famed worldwide nature attraction.
What To Do
1. Pursue high thrill activities like kayaking, whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, base jumping and parasailing from mid-June to mid-August. Attend the Extreme Sports Festival usually held in June.
2. Enjoy winter pursuits like snowmobiling, skiing, and dog-sledding from late November to early March.
3. Cycle or hike your way to the beautiful sceneries of places like the Jotunheimen National Park, the Lofoten Islands, Hardangervidda plateau and the “snowroad” over the Aurland Mountain.
4. Go on a fishing tour and catch some salmon!
5. Experience the thriving nightlife of these famed cities: Oslo, Bergen Stavanger, Trondheim, and Tromso.
