The Norwegian Embassy in Algeria celebrates the National Day

In an elegant atmosphere reflecting the deep and friendly relations between Algeria and the Kingdom of Norway, the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Algiers organized a reception on the occasion of Norway’s National Day, celebrated on May 17, in the presence of diplomatic, political, media, and cultural figures, as well as representatives from the economic, energy, and civil society sectors.

This diplomatic gathering provided an opportunity to highlight the strength of Algerian-Norwegian relations, which continue to grow in several fields, particularly energy, environment, technology, and economic cooperation, in addition to political dialogue and cultural exchanges between the two countries. The event also reflected the spirit of friendship and mutual respect shared by the two peoples.

In her speech, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Algeria, Ms. Therese Loeken Gheziel, praised the high level of bilateral relations and reaffirmed her country’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation with Algeria across various sectors, especially in light of current international challenges and the transformations linked to energy and sustainable development.

The reception was marked by a refined and warm atmosphere combining Norwegian traditions with Algerian hospitality, reflecting a calm and effective diplomacy between the two nations and opening promising prospects for an even stronger partnership in the future.

by Mrs. Therese Loeken Gheziel, Ambassador of Norway to Algeria, on the occasion of Norway’s National Day, 17 May 2026

Marhaba bikoum.

Your Excellency Madam Secretary of State to the Minister of Mines, in charge of Mines,
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen Ambassadors,
Ladies and Gentlemen, dear friends of Norway, welcome to the Residence of Norway in Algiers.

It is a great joy for my husband and me to welcome you this evening as we celebrate together the 17th of May, Norway’s National Day.

The 17th of May is a very special day for Norwegians. On this day, we celebrate our Constitution, but also values that are dear to us: freedom, democracy, human dignity, and trust. In Norway, this celebration is above all a celebration for children. They are the ones who march, sing, and give this day its unique joy. I believe this says something essential about the country we aspire to be, and about the future we wish to build.

As we celebrate with children, we also think about the future we are preparing for them. Climate change is already becoming very tangible, from Svalbard to the gates of the Sahara. Its effects are being felt from north to south: the ice is melting in Svalbard, the Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, while in many parts of the world, the heat is becoming increasingly difficult to endure. In the face of this reality, Norway and Algeria, as energy-producing countries, carry a particular responsibility. But they also possess the expertise, technology, and capacity to act.

On this festive day, we are also mindful of a world marked by war and suffering. We think of Ukraine, Palestine, Lebanon, Sudan, as well as the grave tensions affecting Iran, the wider region, and many other parts of the world. Everywhere, civilians are paying the heaviest price. In such a context, it is more important than ever to defend international law, the Charter of the United Nations, and the path of peace.

And yet, even in a world that can often seem unforgiving, there are still reasons for hope. I think, for example, of a Sudanese friend who spent many long months in Libya fleeing war while facing serious health problems. A few days ago, he told me that he had obtained refugee status and a visa to join a European country willing to receive him. It is also these concrete acts of solidarity that help us endure, because they remind us that human dignity and compassion can still change lives and give hope.

But this evening, I especially wish to highlight what brings us together. The relationship between Norway and Algeria is strong, meaningful, and full of promise for the future. It is being built in the energy sector through the responsible exploitation of resources, the reduction of emissions, and renewable energy projects. It is also being built in the maritime sector, through shipbuilding, port services, and desalination. It is equally reflected in Algerian expertise and in high-quality products made here in Algeria.

This evening, I would also like to salute Nordic cooperation among neighboring countries, which is particularly vibrant here in Algiers. Recently, we organized the first edition of the Nordic Film Week, and this week the third edition of the Nordic Day on Sustainable Development will take place. These are wonderful opportunities for us to come together and bring to life the ideas and values we share.

Allow me now to thank all those who have made this evening possible.

First, I would like to extend my warmest thanks to my colleagues at the Norwegian Mission in Algiers. It is thanks to their commitment, professionalism, and dedication that this evening has been made possible, just as it is thanks to them that such remarkable work is carried out throughout the year. They all deserve my most sincere gratitude.

My thanks also go to Mr. Karim Ghlaimi and his entire team for their valuable contribution to this beautiful evening.

For my husband and me, this 17th of May also carries a very special meaning, as it is our last National Day here in Algeria. We will soon leave this country to which we have become deeply attached. We will take with us precious memories, great affection for Algeria, and gratitude for having met so many friends here.

As we watch today the children marching in Norway, and as we see gathered here so many friends and partners, we recognize our shared responsibility: the responsibility to build a more sustainable, more dignified, and more livable future for generations to come.

During the evening, you will also be able to enter the Residence to watch on screen the children’s parade in Norway, and take the time to visit the stands of the companies present this evening.

Thank you for your presence, your friendship, and your trust. I hope this evening will be for each of you a wonderful moment of encounter, sharing, and friendship. I wish you all an excellent evening.

Saha aidkoum.