The Prime Minister’s statement (by video) as we mark 50 years since the military coup in Chile
Speech/statement | Date: 11/09/2023 | Office of the Prime Minister
President Boric, People of Chile, Friends of Norway. Today, we remember a painful period in Chile’s history. On behalf of my country – Norway, I want to send you a message of solidarity to Chileans.
The suffering many endured during the years of military dictatorship, sparked broad international solidarity, reaching all the way to my country, engaging scores of Norwegians for your struggle for freedom.
Norway’s Ambassador to Chile at the time, Mr Frode Nilsen, helped hundreds of Chileans to safety. Many Norwegians helped the refugees and supported the struggle for democracy in Chile.
Today, there is a large Chilean community in Norway and many Norwegians with a Chilean background, all making important contributions to our society.
So, all Chileans can be proud of what Chile has become: a strong, vibrant and inclusive democracy, and a staunch defender of human rights and international law.
Thank you for the strong bonds between our two countries and peoples; we are both coastal nations and will have a lot of common endeavors in the future. Heartily warm messages to all of you!