World EXPO 2010: Opening of Norway Day cultural event

各位嘉宾，女士们，先生们，

大家晚上好！
百闻不如一见。

Excellencies,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,

For those of you who are less familiar with mandarin than myself, what I just said was: Good evening – and that hearing about great events is not like seeing it with our own eyes.

It is therefore a great pleasure for me to be here in Shanghai on the occasion of Norway Day at the World EXPO 2010 – and to open this cultural event. This marks the end of an exciting day – a day that has shown Sino–Norwegian cooperation at its best.

“挪威，大自然的赋予 ” is the slogan Norway has chosen – “Powered by Nature” – to address the Expo theme “Better City, Better Life”.

City life is determined by the city’s relationship with nature in and around the city. Nature is a source of inspiration, recreation and energy. Forests, coastlines and fjords represent opportunities for sustainable living through the use of renewable resources like wood, sun, wind and waves. Innovative thinking on how to harness natural resources in a sustainable way is key to a better future.

Shanghai World Expo is taking place at a time when the world is looking for a new kind of balance. Up until now we have seen that economic growth comes at the expense of the environment and future generations. Now it’s time to show that a different model is possible.

We need to bring about harmony between mankind and nature. We need to find a way forward to a low carbon society.

The Expo theme “Better City, Better Life” reflects the aspiration of all mankind. Shanghai Expo is a unique event that will inspire new ideas, technologies and products for future development. Historically, the World Expo has fostered and showcased new inventions - like the steam engine and the wireless telegraph. Innovation is crucial for environmentally friendly development.

Shanghai is a highly appropriate host for the World Expo. Not only has this thriving city been the centre of Norwegian commercial activities in China since the 19th century. Shanghai is also one of the world’s most exciting hubs for international business – and is gradually taking a leading position on the world stage of shipping and finance.

There are long traditions of cultural exchange between Norway and China. This evening, we can enjoy some of the best our two countries have to offer in the field of culture. The program includes a great and exciting variety of performers with equally varied cultural and artistic expressions.

I will shortly leave the stage to the arts. But before I do so: It is my sincere hope that the exhibitions at the pavilions here at the Shanghai World EXPO and the exchanges between those who visit them will foster the enthusiasm, creativity and commitment needed for a greener tomorrow – powered by nature.

挪威，大自然的赋予
敬请欣赏。