The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila hosted the celebration for Norway's Constitution Day on May 17, at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Manila. This annual event is a significant occasion marking the signing of Norway's constitution in 1814. The evening gathered guests across government, international organizations, business sector, members of the diplomatic corps, and friends of the embassy.

For the ceremonial toast, Norwegian Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster was joined by the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps John Brown and Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs Jesus S. Domingo.

In his speech, Ambassador Lyster said, “In Norway, I would have started the speech by saying happy birthday ‘gratulerer med dagen’ because it is actually Norway’s birthday. On May 17th, we celebrate the world’s second oldest written national constitution still in force. We celebrate how Norway has developed into the open, peaceful, free and democratic society it is today. And we remind ourselves that democracy is the result of the choices we make every single day.”

Coinciding with the occasion is the celebration of 120 years since the Norwegian Parliament declared Norway a fully independent nation and 119 years since they posted their first Norwegian consul in Manila.

“In times like this, it is more important than ever to value partnerships with like-minded friends. Now more than ever, we must stand together to support and promote international law and a rules-based international order, the multilateral system and find peaceful solutions. That is why I want to take a moment to appreciate our strong bilateral ties with the Philippines,” he added.

One of the highlights of the night was the performance of the cadets under the NSA Cadet program of popular Norwegian songs “Am I wrong”, “Don’t say you love me”, “Take on me”, and “Beggin’” before the lavish Norwegian seafood buffet selection was served.

Ambassador Lyster added “I could not bring the marching bands and the children’s parades that will fill the streets of Norway on May 17th in Manila, but we have brought a taste of our country to our buffet tonight, which of course includes delicious seafood from the cold, clear waters of Norway. And for the more daring, you will have a chance to try the Norwegian Aquavit yet again this year, but, as always, be careful it does have a strong kick.”

Ambassador Lyster also expressed his thanks for the support of the Norwegian business community in the Philippines and the Philippines Norway Business Council act as an important. The list of sponsors for the event shows the diversity of Norwegian companies in the country.