Alberto Rubio
In a forceful speech, Norway’s ambassador to Spain, Nils Haugstveit, condemned “the brutal Russian attack on Ukraine’s sovereignty” during a reception he hosted Tuesday to celebrate his country’s National Day.
Norway commemorates every May 17 the adoption of its Constitution in 1814. “Normally it is a joyous day for us, but today it is not,” Haugstveit said as he began his remarks. “It is a very sad moment, not only for Ukraine and Europe but for all of us who believe in freedom, respect for international law and peace,” he added.
The ambassador assured, before more than a hundred guests, that “our solidarity and our hearts are with the Ukrainian people” in the face of an aggression “against the values shared by different peoples around the world, which is contempt for the principles embodied in the Charter of the United Nations.”
After recalling that Norway strongly supports sanctions against Russia and sending aid to Ukraine, such as protective equipment and weapons,” Haugstveit insisted that his country has welcomed, and will continue to welcome “people who have managed to escape the war, women, girls and boys, who have had to leave behind husbands and fathers who remain defending their country.”
“As a diplomat,” he continued, “I feel pain to witness violations of rights and principles that are the cornerstone of international society and international law. And as a husband, father and grandfather I feel pain to witness Russian cruelty against the civilian population in Ukraine.”
The ambassador concluded by noting that “today in Norway is a day of unity when we forget what separates us and celebrate what unites us. Today the sense of unity goes beyond Norway, and includes people all over the world who value and stand for freedom, democracy and the right to live in peace. Today we are more united than ever”.
The reception, held at the official residence of the head of the Norwegian Mission, was attended by numerous ambassadors, representatives of institutions, academics, and businessmen.
