His Royal Highness King Harald V of Norway has scheduled a trip to Homer next Tuesday, as part of his first tour of Alaska.
The royal itinerary includes discussions of Arctic issues including climate change, industry and meetings with the Norwegian American community.
King Harald will fly from Anchorage to Homer via helicopter, entertaining the public at 11:30am at Ramp 2 by the old harbor master’s office on the harbor. He will tour the area with the Norwegian Ambassador, scientists, and other officials. They’ll depart for Anchorage shortly before 4pm and spend the evening with Governor Bill Walker.
His Majesty spent last weekend (May 21-23) in Washington state, to receive an Honorary Doctorate from Pacific Lutheran University, at its 125th anniversary commencement ceremony. It was his first trip to the state in 20 years.
His Majesty spoke publicly in Seattle, remembering his early visits to the United States…
“When Nazi Germany invaded Norway in 1940, 75 years ago, my family was forced to flee from Norway. President Roosevelt and the American people reached out to us, and gave my mother, my sisters and myself a safe home in the USA. I am deeply grateful for the generosity and hospitality we felt throughout those five years in the United States. Your country has had a special place in my heart ever since. Then, as now, our countries stood shoulder-to-shoulder in promoting our common values of freedom, democracy and human rights.
Shared values and cultural similarities make it easier for business people from our countries to succeed in each other’s markets. Norwegians who have settled here, have shaped one of the region’s main industries – the fishing industry, with activities worth billions of dollars. Today, there are several Norwegian companies that are important in Washingston’s vibrant business sector. Our business people and entrepreneurs are modern-day pioneers, creating jobs and developing new technologies – thus contributing to welfare.”
For the full list of King Harald’s engagements in Alaska, click here.
