Moving on to Shanghai

The King and Queen took the Transrapid train into Shanghai this afternoon local time. First on their programme was a meeting with the city’s Norwegian community.

Norwegians in Shanghai

Since the mid-1800s, Shanghai has played an important role in Norwegian trade and shipping activities in this part of the world. The Royal Norwegian Consulate in Shanghai was established in 1906 as one of the very first diplomatic missions opened after the dissolution of the union with Sweden in 1905. Today, 300 to 400 Norwegians live in the Shanghai area. Many are still involved with shipping, but other business activities are also well represented, in addition to academia, art and culture. There is also a large number of Norwegian students at institutions in this area.

The King and Queen had the opportunity to meet many of the Norwegians who have settled in the Shanghai area along with their families.

The Norwegian community was invited to a gathering in the former British Consulate building. Photo: Tim Haukenes

Norwegian-Chinese violinists Sara and Catharina Chen gave a short concert for the guests. Photo: Tim HaukenesNorwegian-Chinese violinists Sara and Catharina Chen gave a short concert for the guests. Photo: Tim Haukenes

Met with provincial authorities

King Harald and Queen Sonja also had a meeting with local government officials today. Talks with Mayor of Shanghai Ying Yong and Party Secretary Li Qiang were followed by an official dinner at Xing Guo Hotel.

King Harald and Queen Sonja also had a meeting with local government officials. Photo: Tim HaukenesKing Harald and Queen Sonja also had a meeting with local government officials. Photo: Tim Haukenes

The ocean as common denominator

The ocean and the shipping industry are at the core of the Norwegian presence in Shanghai and have remained a key focus for over 150 years. Over time the network of contacts between the two countries has expanded, but tomorrow the ocean will once again dominate the programme. The King and Queen will be taking part in “Ocean Day”, which will combine business, food and the environment – all with the ocean as a common denominator.