The decoration of Sabo took place before a dinner hosted by Norwegian Ambassador Knut Vollebaek and his wife Mrs. Ellen Vollebaek, celebrating the Congressman’s 28 years of service in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Sabo has been invaluable in establishing, developing and leading the "Friends of Norway Caucus" in the House, and it now counts more than 50 members of both parties. Also noted is the Congressman's 2005 initiative to secure funding for cultural and educational exchange programs between Norway and the United States. The initiative came in conjunction with Norway's centennial, and the funds are administered by the Norwegian American Foundation.
“In this country, one of our greatest assets are all the Americans of Norwegian descent. Between five and six million Americans claim Norwegian ancestry and feel close to Norway. Your are one of those, Martin. In the important positions that you have held both in the Minnesota House of Representatives and for the last 28 years in the U.S. Congress, you have been a wonderful support for us in the work that this Embassy tries to carry out in improving the important relations between our two countries,” Ambassador Vollebaek said.
“I am proud to have been involved in Norwegian matters during my years in Congress,” said Sabo, whose parents were born in Norway. “Norway is one of the major oil exporting countries that handle their revenue with thoughfulness. Your involvement in peace negotiation processes helps people around the world. All can learn from you,” he said.
The Royal Norwegian Order of Merit was founded by His Majesty King Olav V in 1985. It is offered to foreign citizens and Norwegian citizens with permanent residence abroad in recognition of outstanding contributions to Norwegian interests. The Order may also be given to foreign public servants in Norway for diplomatic and consular contributions.