“The Midwest has been fertile ground for the extensive bonds between Norway and the United States – between families, friends, schools and businesses. These contacts and human dimension have proven to be a solid pillar in what is Norway’s most important relationship with another country,” Mr. Strommen said.
The Ambassador will tour historical, cultural, and educational institutions, many of which were founded by Norwegian immigrants. He will spend time with leaders of the Norwegian-American community to discuss how to continue to cultivate the strong bonds that exist between Norway and the Midwest. He will meet with former Vice President Walter Mondale, who will assume the position of Norwegian Consul General in Minnesota this summer, and with Governor Tim Pawlenty to discuss expansion of bilateral cooperation between Minnesota and Norway.
Program highlights
April 14: The Ambassador meets with students and faculty at Augustana College, Sioux Falls, SD, and gives a public speech entitled “Norway and United States in the 21st Century – Working together in a Changing World.” Dr. Arthur Olsen receives the Medal of St. Olav. Visit to Sanford Hospital, which aims to collaborate with Norway on pediatric care.
April 15: Visit to Vesterheim Museum and meeting with board members. Public speeches at Luther College, Decorah, IA, and St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN.
April 16: Tour of the Norwegian-American Historical Association. Speech at Augsberg College, Minneapolis, MN. Meetings with Walter Mondale and Governor Tim Pawlenty.
April 17: Public speech at Concordia College, Moorhead, MN. Visit to Hjemkomst Center.
April 18: Discussions about exchange in education, culture and technology at University of North Dakota. Public speech: “Norway and United States in the 21st Century – Working together in a Changing World.”