Therese Loken Gheziel Concludes Her Diplomatic Mission in Algeria Amid Praise for Her Efforts to Strengthen Algerian–Norwegian Relations

The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Algeria, Mrs. Therese Loken Gheziel, hosted a reception to mark the end of her diplomatic mission in Algeria. The event was attended by several Algerian officials, members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Algeria, as well as figures from the worlds of business, culture, and media.

The gathering provided an opportunity to review the progress of Algerian–Norwegian relations and the developments achieved in recent years, particularly in the fields of energy, investment, and economic cooperation, in addition to coordination and consultation between the two countries on various regional and international issues of mutual interest.

In her remarks, Ambassador Therese Loken Gheziel expressed her appreciation for the time she spent in Algeria, praising the warm welcome and hospitality she received throughout her tenure. She also highlighted the strength of bilateral relations and the significant opportunities available to further enhance the partnership between Algeria and the Kingdom of Norway in the future.

Those in attendance commended the ambassador’s efforts to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries and wished her every success in her future endeavors.

The reception concluded in a friendly atmosphere that reflected the deep mutual respect and friendship between Algeria and the Kingdom of Norway, as well as the shared commitment to continuing cooperation in the interests of both friendly nations.
Speech by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Algeria, Ms. Therese Løken Gheziel, on the Occasion of Her Farewell Reception

Excellencies, dear colleagues, dear friends,

This evening, Nor-Edine and I are both delighted and deeply moved to be with you here. My mission in Algeria is coming to an end after four years spent in this extraordinary, welcoming, generous, and sometimes bewildering country—but always a fascinating one.

Four years is both a long and a short time. Short, because we still feel there is so much left to discover. Long, when we look back at everything that has happened in the world during this period. Crises, disasters, wars, and human suffering have accumulated at a pace that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

In such a context, being a diplomat takes on a special meaning. It reminds us that dialogue, patience, listening, and human connections are never secondary. They lie at the heart of our profession, and also at the heart of what allows us to remain confident, even when the world appears increasingly fragile.

Algeria has taught us this in a very tangible way. We have had the privilege of traveling throughout this country and discovering its vast and diverse landscapes, from the coastline to the mountains, from the North to the South, from historic cities to the horizons of the desert. We feel that we have come to know its geography and diversity a little better, while also realizing how much there is still to learn about its culture, historical depth, and countless nuances.

During these four years, there has been a great deal of work, of course. But there has also been much joy, laughter, and many wonderful encounters—and, it must be admitted, perhaps a little too much excellent food. I leave Algeria with countless memories and valuable lessons.

Above all, I would like this evening to express my gratitude. First, to the embassy team, for its dedication, loyalty, and professionalism. Nothing we have achieved would have been possible without you. You have been the heart of our presence here.

I would also like to thank all those who opened their homes, their tables, their stories, and sometimes even their lives to us. These gestures of hospitality, friendship, and trust will remain among the most treasured memories of our stay.

My gratitude also goes to my dear husband, Nor-Edine, who accompanied, supported, and stood by me throughout these years. His presence, sense of humor, patience, and unwavering support have meant more to me than words can express.

We are sad to leave. Yet it is also good to return home, especially to reunite with our family. Many of our loved ones visited us in Algeria, and we shared wonderful moments with them here.

Nor-Edine will return to teaching, and as for me, I will be returning to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Oslo, where I will be responsible for humanitarian affairs. After these years in Algeria, this assignment will hold a particularly special significance for me.

We therefore leave Algeria with deep emotion, but also with immense gratitude. The world is vast, yet it is also small. Our paths cross, separate, and sometimes meet again where we least expect them.

We hope to see you again, whether in Norway, in Algeria, or elsewhere in the world. Until then, we simply wish to say thank you—from the bottom of our hearts.