Photos by Linny Folau and Mary Lyn Fonua

Crown Prince Haakon of Norway arrived on a chartered flight this afternoon, April 5 at Fua’amotu International Airport, and was greeted by Prince Ata, before going to the Royal Palace in Nuku'alofa for an audience with HM King Tupou VI. 

At the airport Prince Ata greeted the Crown Prince, who was accompanied by Norway’s Minister for Development Dag-Inge Ulstein and other members of his delegation.

The Crown Prince was warmly welcomed by students lining the road from the airport before arriving at the Villa Royal Residence for a quick change, before going to the audience with HM King Tupou VI.

Partnerships

The visit aims to strengthen partnerships with small island states in the South Pacific to promote common interests in the United Nations and in areas of international cooperation such as oceans, climate, peace and security.

The Crown Prince works on a wide range of environmental issues and is interested in the environmental aspects of development efforts, technology and innovation. He is also a goodwill ambassador for the UNDP.

These common interests include securing sustainable seas and dealing with climate challenges, which are core interests to the South Pacific and to which Norway is strongly committed to playing a leading role internationally.

Queen Nanasipau’u will greet the Crown Prince and his delegation at his visit to ‘Ahau.

His delegation includes key members of the Norwegian Royal Household, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and advisors, with Norwegian media.