The Institute of ASEAN-European Studies (IAES) at Holy Cross of Davao College hosted the 19th Ambassadors’ Lecture Series on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, featuring H.E. Christian Halaas Lyster, Ambassador of Norway to the Philippines. The event aimed to strengthen nearly eight decades of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Enduring Partnership Highlighted
Under the theme “Norway in the Philippines: Opportunities, Culture, and Diplomacy,” Ambassador Lyster described how the relationship has evolved from shared seafaring roots to a modern partnership centered on green energy, maritime work, and peace initiatives. He began by sharing a brief history of Norway, emphasizing the significance of its 1814 Constitution, one of the oldest still in use. “So we’re kind of proud of our constitution, and that’s what we celebrate on our national day, May 17th, every year,” he said.
Peace and Human Rights Efforts
A key part of the discussion was Norway’s role in supporting peace in the Philippines, particularly in the Bangsamoro Region and peace talks with communist groups. Lyster stressed that peace is essential for progress. “Because we understand that that is the only true way forward in order to secure development. Without peace, without stability, there’s no development,” he explained. He also highlighted Norway’s work on human rights, including a partnership with the Philippine Department of Justice. A police officer from the Norwegian Embassy collaborates with local authorities on cases of online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC), helping rescue victims.
Blue Economy and Maritime Cooperation
The ambassador discussed Norway’s leadership in the “Blue Economy,” noting that around 25,000 Filipino seafarers work on Norwegian ships, comprising about 63% of their total crew. He also highlighted projects like floating solar and battery systems at Magat Dam and efforts to increase women’s participation in the maritime industry. “Right now, I think globally, only about 1.2% of all seafarers are women, and I’m hoping that number will go up,” he said.
Interactive Open Forum
The lecture shifted into an open forum where students asked questions and shared concerns. When asked about job security amid automation and autonomous ships, Lyster reassured students that skilled workers will still be needed. “I would say don’t worry... there will still be, 20 years from now, a need for trained seafarers,” he said, noting that advanced systems still require trained professionals. On clean energy, he shared that from January to March 2026, 97% of new cars sold in Norway were fully electric.
When asked why Norway maintained its presence in the Philippines while other countries closed embassies in the 1990s, Lyster simply answered, “Norway stayed,” pointing to the strong and lasting relationship. The session concluded with a message of unity, emphasizing that both Norway and the Philippines, as smaller nations, rely on a rules-based international system for stability and fairness.
