Norway’s Foreign Minister held discussions in Singapore to advance collaboration on the green transition, technology governance, and multilateralism.

Norway’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Espen Barth Eide, undertook a working visit to Singapore on 12 November 2025. The visit reflected the continued strengthening of ties between Singapore and Norway, particularly in forward-looking and strategic areas.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan met Minister Eide in the morning. During their discussions, both Ministers reaffirmed the long-standing and close partnership between the two countries, anchored in shared interests and mutual respect. They reviewed ongoing cooperation and explored new opportunities to expand bilateral engagement.

The Ministers held substantive discussions on priority issues, including the green transition, sustainable economic development, and the global governance of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Both sides recognised the importance of shaping responsible and inclusive frameworks to support innovation while safeguarding global stability.

Minister Balakrishnan and Minister Eide also reaffirmed their shared commitment to preserving a rules-based multilateral order. They highlighted collaboration through initiatives such as the UN80 Global initiative and the Future of Investment and Trade Partnership (FIT-P), underscoring the need for international cooperation to address complex global challenges.

Source: Singapore Minister of Foreign Affairs

IN Diplomacy introduced its platform to H.E. Leif Trana, Norway’s newly appointed Ambassador to Singapore, highlighting mutual opportunities for collaboration.

Singapore, 17 December 2024 – In a warm and cordial meeting, Ms. Nomita, Editor-in-Chief of IN Diplomacy, welcomed H.E. Leif Trana, the newly appointed Ambassador of Norway to Singapore. The meeting marked an excellent opportunity for IN Diplomacy to introduce its platform and initiatives to the ambassador, while also discussing the latest developments in Norway-Singapore relations.

Ambassador Trana expressed his enthusiasm for maritime collaboration, highlighting its potential to elevate business connections between the two nations to new heights. He also shared his positive impressions of Singapore, praising the city-state’s efficiency, cleanliness, and impressive food scene. “I’m impressed by the numerous options to eat out in Singapore,” he said with a smile. Ambassador Trana also showcased his good sense of humor, revealing that unlike many of his Norwegian counterparts, he’s not a fan of coffee. “I’m more of an orange juice person,” he joked, adding that he can get a bit grouchy if he doesn’t get his morning, this is his first post as an ambassador and added as part of his preparation to be in Singapore he read books on Founding Father of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew and was highly impressed.

Norway and Singapore have enjoyed a long-standing partnership, with around 400 Norwegian companies operating in Singapore. This robust economic relationship is built on mutual trust, respect, and a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Maritime collaboration is a crucial aspect of Norway-Singapore relations. Both countries have a strong maritime tradition and are committed to promoting sustainable shipping practices. In April 2024, the Singapore-Norway Maritime Business Forum was held, bringing together industry leaders and experts to discuss opportunities for cooperation in the maritime sector, the Ambassador will continue to participate in such events and INDiplomacy will continue to bring you updates on Norway-Singapore relations.

Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters

Norway proudly celebrates its Constitution and National Day on May 17th, 2023, fostering unity, solidarity, and a commitment to peace both at home and abroad.

On May 17th, 2023, Norwegian Ambassador Eivind S. Homme proudly raised the Norwegian flag to commemorate Norway’s Constitution and National Day. This significant occasion marks the adoption of Norway’s Constitution on May 17, 1814, a document that has continuously evolved to protect human rights, democracy, and social security.

Norway’s National Day, celebrated on May 17th, holds deep historical significance, symbolizing the nation’s journey towards full independence, achieved in 1905, except for the occupation by Nazi-Germany during World War II. On this special day, Norwegian children across the country joyously participate in parades, waving their flags with fervor, and are greeted by the King and Queen in Oslo. Even in Singapore, the celebrations continue in the traditional way at the Norwegian Seamen’s Mission, uniting Friends of Norway and fostering a sense of national pride.

At the heart of Norway’s national day celebration lies a strong focus on the young generation. Norwegians aspire to pass on and develop the rich heritage bestowed upon them, a society built on values of justice, equality, solidarity, and compassion for all. The nation believes that by upholding these principles both at home and abroad, they can forge robust partnerships and extend solidarity to the rest of the world.

On this momentous day, while celebrating liberty and peace, Norway takes a stand for Ukraine. Ambassador Homme, along with the people of Singapore, firmly demands an immediate cessation of the war and human suffering caused by the Russian government. This demonstration of solidarity highlights Norway’s commitment to peace and its dedication to upholding shared values worldwide.

The Norwegian Seamen’s Mission in Singapore served as the vibrant setting for the May 17th, 2023, celebration. The Embassy expressing gratitude to the dedicated volunteers, the 17th of May committee, the musicians, and all those involved in making the celebration a memorable one. Over 300 people came together to commemorate Norway’s Constitution Day, emphasizing the significance of this historic occasion.

As the celebrations unfolded, the atmosphere at the Norwegian Seamen’s Mission was one of camaraderie and cultural richness. Attendees immersed themselves in Norwegian traditions, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for their roots. Through this gathering, the Norwegian community in Singapore showcased the enduring bond they share and their pride in their Norwegian heritage.

Norway Night is a biennial event that brings together high-level decision makers to celebrate the partnership between Norway and Singapore, with a festive atmosphere that celebrates all things Norwegian, and to network, connect and explore new opportunities!

NORWAY Night, hosted by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Singapore, brought together over 800 high-level decision makers from around the world on 26th April 2023. The event was supported by sponsors from the Norwegian industry and the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and held at the iconic The Clifford Pier at Collyer Quay.

The beautiful waterfront venue offered an exclusive opportunity for attendees to experience all things Norwegian, from the country’s famous seafood to cocktails and music by renowned jazz artist Felix Peikli and his Singaporean ensemble. The festive-like atmosphere made it an unforgettable evening for everyone who attended.

The event provided a platform for leaders and executives to connect, share ideas, and explore new opportunities in various industries. With its focus on partnership and progress, Norway Night showcased the strong ties between Norway and Singapore, as well as the country’s close connections with other global partners. As industries continue to evolve, Norway Night plays a critical role in driving progress forward by fostering connections and collaborations between leaders and decision makers.

2019 Embassy Activities Round-Up

Norway-Singapore: Closer Than Ever

An almost full capacity crowd at Norway Night 2019 – THE maritime network event of the year at the spectacular The Clifford Pier. (Photo: Iskandar Ahmad)

Ties between Norway and Singapore dating back to the 1850s continue to enjoy the fruits of a resilient relationship which has expanded to accommodate the many changing facets of global matters and the pursuits of contemporary times

In 1906, less than a year after Norway’s independence, the country established a Consulate-General in Singapore, and 50 years ago – on 7th March 1969 – it set up a full-fledged Embassy. To celebrate this friendship, Norway has through the year hosted a slew of events which have been pivotal to enriching the cooperation between both nations.

In March, there was a timely visit by Members of Parliament, which gave us an opportunity to celebrate the Embassy’s birthday. The day after, the visiting parliamentarians as well as SMS Lam Pin Min were Guests-of-Honour for the annual Seafood Dinner. The @50 birthday celebrations officially ended in May when we invited friends and partners to a National Day Celebration at the Asian Civilisation Museum.

Visit by Minister of Trade and Industry

In February, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Torbjørn Røe Isaksen stopped by to look at what makes Singapore the most important hub for Norwegian businesses in Asia, and why more than three quarters of Norwegian direct investments into APAC go to Singapore. He met his counterpart Minister Chan Chung Sing as well as a number of Norwegian companies. He was particularly impressed with the many innovative partnerships between our two countries and the dynamic start-up scene in Singapore.

The 50th Anniversary celebration cake of the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Singapore (Photo: Ingvild Klokk)

Visit by Norwegian Parliamentarians – and the Annual Seafood Dinner

Members of Parliament of Norway, taking a larger interest in developments in Southeast-Asia, visited Singapore in March. They met a number of counterparts and experts, and gained new insights into political, economic and social developments in this region. They also took part in several events. On 8 March, the Norwegian Business Association in Singapore together with the Embassy, Innovation Norway and the Norwegian Seafood Council, had the pleasure of inviting friends to the biggest ever Seafood Dinner. 1100 guests enjoyed first class Norwegian seafood, prepared by top Singaporean and Norwegian chefs! We were honoured to have SMS Lam Pin Min and Members of Parliament from Norway as Guests of Honour.

Norway Night

During Singapore Maritime Week in April, the third edition of “Norway Night” took place at the spectacular Clifford Pier. During this magic night of live music and Norwegian seafood, we welcomed 450 guests, including Guest of Honour SMS DR Lam Pin Min, to a lively celebration of our two countries’ longstanding maritime relations. The Embassy appreciates MPA’s assistance, and would like to thank a number of Norwegian maritime companies for the generous support.

National Day Celebrations at Asian Civilisation Museum

Norway adopted its Constitution on 17 May in 1814 – almost a century before we gained our independence. On the occasion of the National Day, we celebrated our friendship with Singapore and the 50th Anniversary of the Embassy at the Asian Civilisation Museum. We were honoured to have with us SMS Dr Lam Pin Min. The celebration reflected beautifully the many ways and areas in which Singapore and Norway cooperate and engage.

Distinguished guests at Artic Frontiers (from l): Prof Ashraf Kassim, Director NUS; Prof Anne Husebekk, President of UiT The Arctic University of Norway; Mr Ole Øvretveit, Director Arctic Frontiers; Ambassador Anita Nergaard; Minister of State Mr Sam Tan; Ms Liv Lønnum, Deputy Minister of Petroleum and Energy and Prof Kim Holmén (Photo: Iskandar Ahmad)

Arctic Frontiers – Knowledge for Ocean Sustainability

Singapore is an Observer State in the Arctic Council. In order to deepen the cooperation on Arctic issues, and increase the awareness of why the Arctic is relevant also in the tropics, the Embassy with partners organised an Arctic conference on “Knowledge for Ocean Sustainability” at NUS in October. With partners like Arctic Frontiers, NUS, Innovation Norway and Eco-Business, the programme was both substantial and topical. Minister of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Ministry of Social and Family Development, Mr Sam Tan and the Deputy Minister of Petroleum and Energy of Norway, Ms Liv Lønnum, opened the conference. The impressive list of speakers included high-ranking representatives from business, academia and government. In the evening, the documentary “Arctic Awakening”, produced by Eco-Business after a visit to Norway, was screened as part of the exhibition “Changing Course 2019” at the ArtScience Museum. 

Smart Mobility

In October, Singapore hosted the ITS World Congress 2019. A delegation of 75 people visited from the transport sector in Norway, led by Minister of Transport Jon Georg Dale and Deputy Minister Tommy Skjervold. The delegation gained insights into Singapore’s integrated city and transport planning; the MRT-system; dynamic road pricing; use of AI and other technologies to meet future challenges within the transport sector; as well as piloting of autonomous buses. Smart mobility will clearly be important for us to achieve our “Smart Nation” objectives.

Finance and Fintech

In November, Minister of Finance Siv Jensen had agreed to speak at the Singapore FinTech Festival 2019, which attracted close to 60 000 participants. With a focus on sustainability, she could draw on many experiences from Norway. While in Singapore, she met her counterpart, DPM and Minister of Finance Heng Swee Keat, as well as a number of other actors in the finance field. A stop at the APAC office of the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, the Norwegian Government Pension Fund Global, was a natural part of the programme. The Minister, Deputy Minister and the rest of the delegation let Singapore full of ideas on how to support and promote the dynamic Fintech scene in Norway.