The enduring maritime friendship between the Philippines and Norway

DIPLOMATIC POUCH

- CHRISTIAN LYSTER

The ocean is of vital importance to the Philippines and Norway. It is central to our history, our livelihood and development. It is at the core of our bilateral relationship that celebrated 75 years last year. However, our shared history dates back more than a century, when Filipino seafarers sailed on Norwegian ships during World War I. Countless more have sailed under the Norwegian flag since then.

Today, there are over 25,000 Filipinos working on Norwegian-controlled and Norwegian-owned ships. Every single one of them contributes every day to strengthening our maritime ties. Moreover, there are over 50 companies with Norwegian maritime interests established in the Philippines. Probably they will all attest that the Filipino seafarers are talented, hardworking and among the best in the world.