Visit to Nice: Norwegian UNESCO Candidacy event on board Statsraad Lehmkuhl

Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Friends of the ocean,

Welcome on board this mobile piece of Norway – this beautiful vessel, Statsraad Lehmkuhl. What a wonderful way to mark the World Oceans Day – together, in an international community of dedicated and knowledgeable people who share a passion for the ocean. Let us enjoy our time as part of this important voyage.

For many of us Norwegians, being on the ocean, among the waves, can feel like our most natural habitat. You could say that seawater runs through our veins. Throughout the ages, Norwegians have lived off the resources provided by the ocean. Since the first Vikings set sail, the oceans have offered adventure, trade, transport and communication with the rest of the world. They have brought us food, income and welfare. Norway’s history as a maritime nation has shaped the Norwegian people and Norwegian culture.

I have a great personal love for the ocean as well. I come from a long line of sailors. My great-grandfather was a naval officer by education. My grandfather and his team won the Olympic gold medal in sailing back in 1928. My father is also a world champion and has been an active sailor all his life. I was introduced to the ocean early in life and attended the Naval Academy as a young adult.

Our family history is, I suspect, part of the reason for my personal engagement in ocean issues. And I am pleased that this commitment is shared by the Norwegian Government. Ocean issues will be a priority if, with your support, Norway is elected to the UNESCO Executive Board in November. 

It is humbling to stand on the deck of this 111-year-old vessel today. As goodwill ambassador for the One Ocean Expedition, I will be following the ship’s movements and scientific expeditions closely over the next few years.

Statsraad Lehmkuhl encompasses much of what UNESCO is all about: It is a power pack of knowledge, science and teaching, of history, culture and communication – all in one. A sailing university so to speak, in the spirit of UNESCO, that truly embodies UNESCO’s purpose.   

Distinguished ambassadors,

Ladies and gentlemen,

As we all know, the health of the oceans is under threat, and we need to restore a healthy balance. And that is what this voyage is all about:

We’re in this together. We have a shared responsibility to heal the ocean. To succeed, we need different perspectives – both those based on science and those based on local, cultural knowledge passed down through generations.   

So thank you all for being here.

I hope you are enjoying being a small part of Statsraad Lehmkuhl’s expedition – albeit on the calm waters between Monaco and Nice. But nevertheless – we are part of the voyage!  

Thank you.