Visit of Norwegian Ambassador

On Friday 2 March 2001 Premier John Olsen welcomed the Norwegian Ambassador to Australia on the occasion of his first official visit to the State.

Recalling his own Norwegian ancestry, Premier Olsen described to Ambassador Ove Thorsheim the extent of South Australian links to the Nordic area. The Premier outlined South Australia's importance to Australian Defence Industry, pointing out the particular significance of the Collins submarine Project and the new expansion of SAAB Systems in Adelaide. These areas in which South Australia leads the Eastern States were complemented by the decision of the Swedish multi-national Electrolux also to set up its Australian manufacturing base in South Australia. When added to developments in aquaculture, viticulture, education and mineral exports the links with the Nordic area were truly of some moment.

For his part, the Norwegian Ambassador spoke of the skilful way in which Norwegians had manipulated the revenues from North Sea oil, instead of frittering away a bonanza balancing the needs of the present generation with those of future Norwegians, while maintaining high growth, low unemployment and a liberal immigration and refugee policy.

Tony Griffiths, Director of the Centre, and Professor Judith Clare, Dean of the School of Nursing, attended the lunchtime meeting.