Commemorating 120 Years of Norway-Japan Diplomatic Relations

The event commemorates 120 years of diplomatic relations between Norway and Japan, established in 1905. It is co-organized by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, the Norwegian Embassy in Japan, and the Japanese Embassy in Norway. The event features talks and discussions on polar science, student exchange, cultural connections, indigenous social connections, and governance and security. It aims to highlight the historical context of the relationship, current bilateral cooperation, and future areas of collaboration, focusing on fostering understanding and strengthening ties between the two nations.

Opening Remarks: Professor Emeritus Kenji Isezaki, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies:

Introduction with an overview of 120-year diplomatic relations established in 1905: Historical context: Norway was among the first Western nations to establish diplomatic relations with Japan. Recognition of current bilateral cooperation.

Panelist 1: Dr. Kenichi Matsuoka, Norwegian Polar Institute. Topic: Polar Science: 

Norway and Japan's Polar research programs complement each other through shared vessels, stations, and monitoring systems. Their collaboration focuses on marine ecosystems, sea ice, and climate change, with growing potential for expanded data sharing between the nations.

Panelist 2: Dr. Nils Vidar Vambheim (retired), UiT The Arctic University of Norway. Topic: People-to-People Initiative: Student Exchange, and Cultural Connections: 

Student exchanges between Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, Toyo University, and UiT The Arctic University of Norway, foster cross-cultural understanding and establish professional networks. Students gain diverse academic perspectives while developing intercultural competency through exposure to different teaching styles and cultural values.

Panelist 3: Dr. Kanako Uzawa. Topic: Indigenous Social Connections:

The Ainu and Sámi peoples share similar histories of state assimilation and current challenges in indigenous rights and cultural preservation. Their potential collaboration spans traditional ecological knowledge, resource management, and indigenous education, particularly vital as Arctic development and climate change affects their lands.

Panelist 4: Professor Rasmus Bertelsen, UiT The Arctic University of Norway. Topic: Governance and Security and Japan in the Nordic Arctic – Connecting the Pacific Arctic with the Atlantic Arctic:

As an Arctic Council observer, Japan partners with Norway on Arctic governance, research, and security. Their collaboration focuses on maritime safety and sustainable development, while providing a strategic counterbalance as climate change transforms Arctic access and resources.

Moderated Discussion:

Looking ahead, several key questions emerge about Norway-Japan cooperation: The next decade may reveal promising areas for collaboration, particularly in strengthening youth connections and sharing solutions for aging populations and sustainable development. Both nations' polar expertise could significantly contribute to ocean sustainability, while innovation and technology could deepen bilateral ties. Enhanced cultural exchange programs may be crucial for building lasting connections between the two countries.

Musical Number by the Arctic Philharmonic:

Yuko Kawami in violin and Heidi Schulerud Bilsbak on viola.