President Waqa receives Swedish ambassador-designate Ahlberger
His Excellency President Baron Waqa
received the ambassador-designate to Sweden this morning (2 June)
at the Office of the President for the presentation of
credentials.
Mr Par Ingemar Ahlberger was met on arrival at the government
office by the Secretary for Foreign Affairs & Trade Michael
Aroi to present copies of this letter of Credence.
The Ambassador was then escorted by the Commissioner of Police for
the playing of the national anthems and the inspection of the
Police Guard of Honour, followed by the presentation of
credentials.
Upon introduction to President Waqa Mr Ahlberger said he is very
honoured to be the first Swedish ambassador to be accredited to
Nauru.
"Sweden will be more engaged than in the past with the pacific
region, in particular when it comes to climate, environment and
resilience. So within a few weeks' time the Swedish government will
make a historic decision to launch a strategy in developing
cooperation with the pacific region, so it's a very timely visit
and a great honour," the Ambassador said.
In remarks President Waqa extended a warm welcome to the
Ambassador.
"Nauru looks forward to taking further and fostering further our
relation between our two countries. And we would like to make sure
that Sweden and Nauru remain closely linked in common areas of
concern.
"In particular climate change which is of huge concern to us in
the pacific, not only to Nauru but the other pacific islands and we
will be looking up to you (Sweden) as friends in Europe to further
enhance our relationship," President Waqa said.
Mr Ahlberger continues courtesy calls on the Speaker of
Parliament, Cabinet ministers, Chief Secretary, schools, and the
Chief Justice for the remainder of the day.
The Ambassador arrived in Nauru yesterday (Wednesday 31 May) and
met with the Australian High Commissioner, Ambassador for Taiwan,
and several other departments.
President Waqa will host a dinner reception for the Ambassador
tonight before his departure on Friday 3 June.