Ladies and Gentlemen.

Nǚshìmen, xiānshengmen.

Kjære alle sammen!

It is such a pleasure to be here in China with you today.

Yesterday, I had the privilege to meet Minister of Culture and Tourism Sun Yeli and sign a renewed Memorandum of Understanding on cultural cooperation between our two nations.

Cultural exchange has been at the forefront of this relationship, and we are now continuing this tradition.

During my visit, I have had – and will continue to have – the opportunity to meet a wide range of cultural institutions and actors across different sectors in both Beijing and Shanghai.

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And it is a special treat to visit this magnificent library

Libraries are places of wonder. Everyone in this room knows it.

On the shelves and in the magazines of these places you will find years upon years of knowledge.

Meter upon meter of magic.

You will find imagination in its purest form.

You are treated to stories when you enter a library.

Sometimes the library itself seems like part of the story.

Like this building. The columns at the entrance. The light through the windows:

This is such a place.

I think it is safe to say that Beijing Library – this morning – is very much part of the story.

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This library – drawn and designed by renowned Norwegian architects Snøhetta – stands today as a sublime proof of cultural cooperation between China and Norway, and an example of sustainable construction.

And while the structure in itself is stunning, what goes on here – on the inside – is equally impressive.

Norwegian literature, especially children’s books, has had a lasting presence in China.

And just like your wonderful children’s literature offers glimpses into Chinese life and culture, our literature tells the stories about us.

The essence of Norwegian children’s literature is shaped by freedom, imagination, and boldness.

The books break boundaries.

Shun stereotypes and confront conventions.

Play with form and play with content.

Our stories brim with mischief. With humour. With seriousness. 

Our stories don’t tell boys and girls what to think. They invite them to think for themselves.

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This approach reflects values deeply rooted in Norwegian society:

Democracy.

Freedom of expression.

Equality and trust.

In just a few minutes, you will meet two highly regarded and distinct children’s books writers, who have also enjoyed considerable success here in China: Kristin Roskifte and Simon Stranger.

I am sure they will offer valuable insights into what makes the cooperation between the Chinese and Norwegian literary sector a well-established success.

Please welcome Kristin and Simon to the stage, alongside  Andrine Pollen from NORLA.