The Christmas tree from Oslo to London

Lord Mayor,
Mayor,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

The Norwegian Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square sends a message of gratitude and friendship.

A message of gratitude for Britain’s help and hospitality during the difficult years of occupation and a message of friendship between two peoples united by history and culture.

During the dark years of war, the people of Britain received with open arms the many Norwegians who escaped across the North Sea. Amongst them were the Royal Family and the Government.

In 1947, the Christmas tree was offered as a token of gratitude. Over the years this gift has become an ever stronger expression of friendship. During the more than 70 years that this very tree has stood silent in the woods of Oslo, the relations between Britain and Norway have flourished.

Today, Britain, with all its talent and creativity, is a cultural inspiration to scores of Norwegians. It is an important ally and a leading trading partner for so many of our companies. It is a pole of attraction for a large number of our students who come here to study a variety of subjects – from economics and science to music, design, art or photo. And it has become a scene of fascination for so many of my sport dedicated countrymen and women who follow the adventure of our soccer players in the premier league.

As we have carried this special relationship into a new century, we celebrate a friendship with deep roots, just like this old and dignified tree. The placing of a Norwegian Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square spells the coming of Christmas, not only in London, but also in Norway.

Today we light the tree. To children in Norway and Britain, the lights of Christmas signal hope, expectation and joy.

But let us not forget the many children who enter the month of Christmas without expectation, the all too many children who suffer from poverty, war and lack of care. The peoples of Britain and Norway united in solidarity when both our nations were at war. Let us seek inspiration from this solidarity and share of our own prosperity so that all children can grow up in dignity and share a vision for a better future.

I hope the lighted tree once more will give the people of London the feeling of Christmas coming.

I wish you all a happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.