Dear colleagues, friends,
Time has come for me to bid farewell as Norway’s Ambassador to the UN.
I’ll now pass on the baton to my dear colleague Merete Brattested.
It has been four and a half intense years, working closely with UN leaders and Ambassadors from around the world. Together with my team, we have responded to a multitude of crises, and pushed for global solutions to our common challenges.
Along the way I’ve had the honour of serving as President of the Economic and Social Council, and President of the Security Council.
The Covid 19 pandemic hit New York hard.
As UN diplomats, we got a stark reminder of how important it is to meet face-to-face.
To work together to seek consensus, and find solutions.
I leave my post with a heart filled with the memories of many moments where Norway contributed to making a difference:
- as a top donor to the UN’s important work around the world
- as an advocate for human rights, gender equality
- and in support of the Global Goals.
One moment I will never forget, but sincerely hoped never had happened - was the evening of 23rd February last year:
I was in an emergency meeting in the Security Council - where Norway sat as an elected member - when we heard the news that Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine actually had begun.
Since this war broke out, Norway has worked tirelessly to support the UN Secretary-General’s engagement - including to maintain food supplies to people in need in Africa and the Middle East.
I’m proud of my team at the Mission of Norway for all their work.
And I have no doubt Norway’s significant efforts towards a safer and more peaceful world will continue.
A heartfelt thank you to colleagues and friends, and best of luck.