NORWAY 2013

SPECIAL EDITION

“World Markets and Opportunities”

Norway

2013 Norway | World Markets and Opportunities | 47

As of 2011 Norway was the world’s 5th largest oil exporter, ahead of Kuwait, Nigeria, Canada and the U.S., and the 3rd largest natural gas exporter, after Russia and Canada

Norway is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government.

The present Sovereign is King Harald V

Hundreds of deep fjords that cut through the coast give Norway an overall coastline of more than 19,312 km. The most significant fjords include Baknafjord, Geirangerfjord, Hardangerfjord, Moldefjord, Sognefjord, Trondheimfjord and Vestfjord 48 | World Markets and Opportunities | Norway

Norway is the world’s leading producer of Atlantic salmon and the second largest seafood exporter in the world.

Although Norway is a member of the European Free Trade Association and the European Economic Area, Norway remains one of only two Nordic countries outside the EU, the other being Iceland

During World War II, the Nazi’s interned 3,840 Serbs in 13 camps in Norway. Of them 1660 managed to escape the death camps thanks to the help of Norwegian people who provided them with food, medicine and other necessities

Photo: The house of Norwegian-Serbian friendship

The World Audit ranked Norway first in the world for Freedom of the Press in 2012, 4th for democracy and 7th for corruption out of 150 countries surveyed.

Norway is far and away the dominant Winter Olympic Games force, taking home a whopping 62 medals per one million people

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interview

H. E. MR. Nils Ragnar Kamsvåg, Norwegian Ambassador to Serbia

Progress is Evident A number of elements in the economy can be changed withouth great costs. It is important to make it easier to invest here through better, more efficient and more transparent procedures. I have to note, however, that during the three years I’ve been here the climate has changed, especially when it comes to certain municipalities that are very focused on attracting investors by improving regulations

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he friendship between Norway and Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia is a longstanding one. A special relationship was forged after the Second World War on the basis of relations developed between returning Yugoslav Prisoners of War from German concentration camps in Norway and civilian Norwegians trying to help them during their stay in Norway.

The relationship has developed and broadened since then. Norway is not a full member of the EU, but it is a member of the EEA (European Economic Area), which covers most economic aspects of EU cooperation, and is also a member of the Schengen Treaty. The Norwegian government’s view is that the rapid EU integration of all the countries of the Western Balkans is important for peace, political and social stability, cooperation and economic development in the region and, as such, it has a considerable assistance programme to further assist in the EU integration

of these countries. Norway continues to show commitment to the development, prosperity, stability and integration of Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia into European structures by focusing on cooperation, particu-

equality, women’s rights and minority rights. Norway’s assistance is channelled both through cooperation programmes with the different governments and through civil society organisations and local governments.

Norway and Serbia deployed forces together in 2011 and it was the first time that Serbia deployed forces together with any other nation

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larly within the areas of the rule of law, independent supervisory bodies like the State Auditor, anti-corruption bodies and Ombudsman, defence and security sector reform, energy and climate issues and furthering gender

■ You are well informed regarding political relations and the economic situation in Serbia. Under current circumstances, how do you evaluate bilateral relations between Serbia and Norway?

- In general, relations are very good, as is cooperation in a number of areas.

In particular, cooperation in the military field is very well developed. For instance, Norway and Serbia deployed forces together in 2011 in an UN-operation in Chad. I think that was the first time Serbia deployed forces together with any other nation. We have really good relations when it comes to police cooperation, environment and energy. Political relations have been very strong in the last few years, but economic relations are shaped by the fact that we are two small countries that are relatively far away and the fact that the Serbian market is not such a big one. So, economic trade between our countries is limited. However, Norway is very high on the list of investors in Serbia and, according to Serbian government data, Norway is the 4th biggest investor.

■ In which areas are these relations most developed and where does the untapped potential lie?

- If we are talking about trade, I think there is high potential for Serbia to increase trade with Norway. Despite the fact that Norway’s population is only five million, we have a strong economy. It’s an attractive market and it would be very good for Serbia to export more to Norway. In terms of Norwegian export to Serbia, as the second largest exporter of fish in the world we would like to convince Serbs to eat more fish. When it comes to investments, being a major energy producing country, Norway has a number of big ebergy companies.. Our state oil company is among the biggest oil companies in the world, Statkraft is the biggest producer of sustainable energy in Europe and we are now the biggest exporter of gas to Europe. Our biggest investments are in the energy domain. Our energy companies have been looking at the market here and have made major investments in the region, unfortunately not in Serbia.

As examples Statkraft has invested more that 1 billion Euros both in Albania and Turkey., The Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), with Statoil as one of

the main owners and providers of gas, will transport gas from the Caspian Sea through Turkey, Albania and Greece to Italy. The final decision on building the pipeline will be made before the end of the year. TAP will offer an interesting potential for the whole Balkan region..

Norwegian investments through Telenor are big in the telecommu-

One very nice example off the potential in this sector is projects to further honey production and exports, supported by the Norwegian Embassy. In 2012, the Norwegian Business Innovation Programmes (BIP) facilitated export of an initial 120 tonnes of good quality honey from Serbia to Norway. That means that Serbian honey captured 10 % of the Norwegian market already the first year. This year there are indications that the export of honey to Norway may be tripled.

■ In which ways does the Norwegian Embassy assist in the linking of our two countries in the economic domain?

- We don’t really have any specific project with that aim, but we do have projects focusing oncapacity building, improving production and economic development. The embassy also tries to be as helpful as possible providing information to both Serbian producers and Norwegian companies trying to export to or invest in Serbia.

The most important thing is a highly unified political agenda – every party in the parliament, except one, supports Serbia’s European integration nications sector in Hungary, Montenegro and Bulgaria.

■ What are the demands that Serbian entrepreneurs have to fulfil in order to be successful on the Norwegian market?

- The biggest issue, not only for Serbia but all countries in the region, is quality control. That’s absolutely the key matter. For instance, Serbia clearly has high potential in terms of agricultural products. We have had projects, not only in Serbia but also in neighbouring countries, to help further exports in agricultural products. Serbia has great potential for export of agricultural products; good climatic conditions and the soil is of the best quality in Europe.

■ As a country with a strong economy, Norway is potentially a major investor in Serbia. What is hindering the process of attracting influential investors to Serbia?

- Weak rule of law, corruption, poor infrastructure and inefficient public services are probably main barriers for investing in Serbia.

However, particularly when it comes to fighting corruption I think the Serbian government is sending clear and encouraging signals which will encourage investors. Serbia’s EU integration will address all of these issues. The EU integration also gives Serbia a development framework, focusing on implementing EU-legislation. For investors that is important because this is a very clear signal on Serbia’s future orientation.

I think it is very important is that the Serbian government is trying to improve the economy taking step which do not necessary involve great costs with very little. There are lots of nonmonetary things that can be done to

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strategies are now in place, but on actual implementation of regulation there is room for improvement.

Serbia seems well prepared for the negotiations, having already established a structure for dealing with

improve the economy through better, more efficient and more transparent procedures, better institutions and improved legislation. It will make it easier to investThe last rankings from the World Economic Forum, which saw Serbia ranked 101stin global competitiveness is not good news for investors, but should serve as a wake-up call for the government that lots remains to be done. I note however, that during the three years I’ve been here the investment climate has improved. It is particularly interesting to note the strong will to improve regulations and procedures in many municipalities.

■ Apart from Telenor, as probably the most successful Norwegian company in Serbia, which other Norwegian companies should be noted as successful examples on this market?

- Elopak, which is producing packaging and has a factory on the outskirts of Belgrade, and Rapp Zastava, which produces winches and lifts and has a very good development. There are also some other small companies, like Nera.

■ How would you assess Serbia’s progress to date on the road to European integration?

- The most important thing is a highly unified political agenda on European integration. Every party in the parliament, except one, supports the European integration of Serbia. That gives a high degree of political confidence that Serbia eventually will become a member of the EU. There’s been great progress in solving the Kosovo issue. That has been and is politically very challenging for the government, but I think the government has shown considerable political courage and determination to find a lasting solution.

As to the integration process so far, there are certainly a number of big challenges as illustrated in the progress reports, rule of law being one of the most important. Considerable progress has been achieved in some areas, less so in other areas. As far as I can see many action plans and

Even though Norway is one of the richest countries in Europe and has large reserves of oil and gas, its most important resource is people and their skills

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the negotiations and having appointed a very well-respected expert as chief negotiator. That should augur well for the negotiations when they hopefully start next January.

■ The Norwegian Embassy is a major donor in the domain of civil society and you are one of the embassies to have supported the staging of the Gay Pride Parade. What is the importance of this event in the field of human rights and in terms of the political will of the government to carry out European integration to the full extent?

- The key question here is is the fact that in any European country you

should have freedom to demonstrate and freedom of assembly. We all should be able to express ourselves through demonstrations and assembling without being prevented from that by groups not respecting such an important aspect of democracy. Actually, the authorities have the obligation to protect these rights. Things are clear when it comes to the Constitution and laws in Serbia, as ruled by the Constitutional Court. From that point of view it is important that this event takes place without any kind of incidents. As an embassy don’t want to interfere in domestic policies, but it is our duty to promote general and shared principles of human right and rule of law.

■ The Embassy of Norway is among the few to have devoted a lot of attention to women’s entrepreneurship in Serbia. How do you provide even greater support and what incentives are required in this area?

- Gender equality is important in all modern societies, giving the same opportunities to all inhabitants.

That is why we have a focus on this in our assistance globally.

We support a lot of programmes promoting entrepreneurship in general, because we think it is a key area for furthering economic development not only in Serbia, but in the whole region. Knowing from our own country how important entrepreneurship has been and is for development of our economy, we have been introducing entrepreneurship programmes to schools here. As to women; you still have lower participation of women than men in the workforce. Looking at it from a purely economic perspective, there’s thus a big potential source of workers among the female population.

In a modern economy women may have a higher potential for success than men. In most countries a higher percentage of women gain university degrees these days. It is therefore also of great economic importance to have a higher female participation in the workforce. ■

Support and donations

Strengthening Capacities As an integral part of Norway’s overall assistance to the Western Balkans, the Norwegian Embassy in Belgrade manages a grant scheme for developing civil society and local communities in Serbia. As well as projects related to broader developments and civil society capacity building in Serbia, the embassy also manages a separate support programme

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H.E. Mr. Nils Ragnar Kamsvåg opened the Student Fair in Belgrade

orway has contributed approximately NOK 1,950 million (€250 million) in bilateral assistance to Serbia since 2000. For 2013 Norwegian assistance is approximately 70 million NOK, a large part of which is realised through close and direct cooperation between the Norwegian and Serbian governments. Important priorities in this cooperation are energy and environmental issues; reform of the security, justice and domestic sectors; strengthening independent control and regulatory agencies and gender and minority issues. Defence-related cooperation between Norway and Serbia is particularly noticeable.

Norway also supports confidence building measures among ethnic communities.

As an integral part of Norway’s overall assistance to the Western Balkans, the Norwegian Embassy in Belgrade manages a grant scheme for developing civil society and local communities in Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia. The Embassy Fund is open throughout the year to various types of applicants, for initiatives usually lasting up to one year and to a value up to NOK 750,000 (app. €100,000).

When it comes to project proposals related to broader developments and civil society capacity building in Serbia, the embassy manages a separate support programme entitled “Strengthening Civil Society in Serbia” (SCS). This programme was initiated in autumn 2011 in order to renew, increase and focus Norwegian assistance to Serbia’s civil society sector. The goal is to assist civil society in contributing to diversity, capacity and impact on social development

and public discourse in Serbia. The programme is designed for three years, with a total amount of NOK 30 million (app. €4 million). During 2012 some 15 civil society organisations were supported through the SCS programme, with total donations amounting to €1.3 million. Following detailed monitoring and evaluation of the results achieved by the 15 projects supported in 2012, it was decided that five of them would receive continued support. These five projects received contracts in spring 2013 worth in excess of €500,000.

As a result of the embassy’s experiences during the initial phase of this programme, it was decided that the second phase of SCS should provide funding for running costs to groups of CSOs active in the programme’s priority areas. As such, the embassy decided

The Strengthening Civil Society in Serbia (SCS) programme was initiated in autumn 2011 to support organisations with a long-term vision of how to develop their organisations, with a clear impact on society. Thus, following a new public call for proposals in autumn 2012, roughly 155 organisations throughout Serbia submitted their applications. From this call, the embassy selected five organisations which were granted support in the second phase of the SCS programme.

Additionally, the embassy this year decided to also support the project Human Rights House. This specific project provides long-term support to five civil society organisations. Given that the premises were provided by the City of Belgrade for use by the organisations for an indefinite period of time, it was decided that the refurbishment of the Human Rights House would be supported with €300,000. ■

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interview

Mihailo Vesović, Vice President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce

Potential That Needs to be Realised Considering the population’s high standard of living, the Norwegian market demands a designed performance, efficient marketing and good contacts with the appropriate companies and agencies. Chances for companies from Serbia are seen in the confectionery industry, agriculture and health food million last year, with Serbian exports worth $13.1 million and imports totalling $16.5 million. The deficit on the Serbian side was 31.4 per cent lower in 2012 than in 2011, when it stood at $10.7 million.

We mostly export industrial machinery, road vehicles, metal products, sugar, honey, oil and oil derivatives to Norway. Imports are dominated by fish and fish products, plastic materials, special machinery, road vehicles and fertilisers.

When it comes to investments, Norway’s biggest investment, and one of the biggest single foreign investments in Serbia, is that of Norwegian mobile telephone operator Telenor in 2006. According to the statistics

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he traditional friendship between the two nations, coupled with good political relations and economic potential, represents a good foundation for the development of economic cooperation between Serbia and Norway. According to Mihailo Vesović, Vice President of the Serbian Chamber, significant advances have been made in the field of economic cooperation, but there is room for further improvement.

manufacturer of packaging for milk and milk products, Elopak Serbia is part of Elopak Norway. The company exports about 35 per cent of its total Serbian production to Italy, Macedonia, the Czech Republic, Turkey, Sweden, Denmark etc. The rest of the production is sold on the domestic market at almost all dairies in Serbia.

■ What is the strategy for the promotion of Norwegian investments in Serbia? Are there serious investment plans in the country this year?

- Through its investment policy, Serbia seeks to attract as many investors as possible and many have recognised the benefits and advantages of investment and we expect

One of the results of Business Forum of Norwegian and Serbian companies in Oslo in 2010 was an agreement of the commencement of a project in the field of treatment of slaughterhouse waste

■ What are the most important aspects of existing economic cooperation between Serbia and Norway?

- The current economic cooperation between the two countries is based on the exchange of goods and Norwegian investments in Serbia. The trade exchange reached nearly $30 54 | World Markets and Opportunities | Norway

of the National Bank of Serbia, total Norwegian direct investments in Serbia from 2005 to 2011 reached €1.3 billion. In that period Norway was ranked second in terms of the value of foreign direct investment, after Austria. During 2012 investments amounted to €3.4 million. A significant Norwegian investment was that of the company Elopak. A

there will be an even greater influx of foreign investment in the future, including from Norway. Potential Norwegian investors have shown interest in investing in the production of parts for the automotive industry. The project is still under consideration, but we should mention the company RAPP Zastava from Kragujevac, which operates

extremely well and is planning further investments in the expansion of production capacity. Namely, RAPP Zastava from Kragujevac is owned by Norwegian company RAPP MARINE GROUP, which has been present in Kragujevac since 2006, when it purchased the Zastava Mašine enterprise from the former Zastava Holding. RAPP Zastava is an example of a successful privatisation. The company exports all its production of parts for ships, oil platforms and machines. Last year saw production increased by a record of 65 per cent compared to the previous two years and this year’s results are also good. RAPP Zastava recently bought a section of the 21 Oktobar Factory in Gruža, which is under restructuring, complete with approximately 10,000 square metres, additional facilities, equipment and about four hectares of land.

RAPP Zastava intends to become the main manufacturing centre of the parent company RAPP Marine Group by 2014, which implies the doubling of production, investment in equipment and additional production space.

■ In what ways does the Serbian Chamber of Commerce help to connect Norwegian and Serbian business leaders?

- The Serbian Chamber of Commerce uses every opportunity to promote Serbia’s economic potential and investment opportunities and to create an environment for the establishment of direct contacts between businesses in the two countries to exchange information and examine possibilities for cooperation. One of the most significant events in this field was the Business Forum of Norwegian and Serbian companies in Oslo, which took place in May 2010 and was organised as part of the visit of a state-business delegation from Serbia to Norway. One of the results of this visit was an agreement of the commencement of a project in the field of treatment of slaughterhouse waste.

The main task of the project “Waste Management in the Slaughter-Processing Industry in Serbia”, which was initiated by the Serbian Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with Norwegian company IDN and with the financial support of the Norwegian Embassy in Belgrade, was to raise awareness of the importance of waste management and the development of new business opportunities.

oped in recent years?

- Norway could be classified among the economic partners of Serbia of medium importance. Of the 164 countries’ markets where Serbia placed goods in 2012, Norway was ranked 42nd according to the value of exports and was 53rd among the 204 countries Serbia imported products from. The trade exchange growth tendency, particularly good growth in Serbian exports, which had a value almost equal to that of imports in 2008, was interrupted by the global financial crisis in 2009.

One should also consider the fact that until the year 2000 the exchange of goods was characterised by a surplus on our side.

Considering the population’s high standard of living, the Norwegian market demands a designed performance, efficient marketing and good contacts with the appropriate

Of the 164 countries’ markets where Serbia placed goods in 2012, Norway was ranked 42nd according to the value of exports and was 53rd among the 204 countries Serbia imported products from ■ How is the Norwegian chamber of commerce system organised and what kind of cooperation do you have with it?

- There are 16 local and regional chambers of commerce in Norway.

Their work is coordinated by the Norwegian Association of Commerce (NAC), as an association of chambers of commerce of Norway. Membership in Norwegian chambers is voluntary. Cooperation with these chambers is mainly achieved on a commercial basis. The embassies of Norway in Belgrade and Serbia in Oslo provide significant support for the implementation of various projects and activities aimed at establishing closer ties and cooperation.

■ How have economic movements in cooperation with Norway devel-

companies and agencies. Chances for companies from Serbia are seen in the confectionery industry, agriculture and health food. The Norwegian economy has also developed high technology and boasts significant resources to finance projects.

■ What are the most important bilateral agreements between the two countries?

- Norway is a member of EFTA – the European Free Trade Association – and it signed a free trade agreement with Serbia in December 2009, which came into force in 2011. The advantages provided by this agreement should be exploited and specific prospects for increasing exports from Serbia to Norway can be seen in the agriculture sector and the food industry. ■

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Interview

Ove Fredheim, CEO of Telenor Serbia

Leading Player The fact that we became Serbia’s market-share leader in revenue is one of our greatest successes. This has proven that we have made bold and smart decisions on the market Serbian telecommunications market and make new attractive offers for our business users.

This year Telenor Serbia has bought Belgium’s KBC bank with the goal of introducing advanced and latest mobile financial services to our customers in Serbia that will make their life easier.

In terms of corporate responsibility and community relations, we are more than happy with the projects we have done, such as, for example, opening over 30 internet parks across Serbia or the project “Povezivanje” elenor is not only the leading investor in Serbia, it is also the in partnership with the Ministry of Health and UNICEF, through which leading player in its sector and Telenor Serbia is the leading over 120,000 Roma were registered and their healthcare improved. We member of the Telenor Group in many areas. In order to dis- are the first Serbian operator to implement filters that limit access to cuss the amazing successes of this company, but also its future websites with child sex abuse content. Telenor also wants to create an “internet for all” environment, but in a safe way. Just as important is our plans, we spoke to Telenor Serbia CEO Ove Fredheim.

Telenor Collection of Contemporary Serbian Art. It has been our wish to • Last month Telenor marked seven years of its operations in Serbia. use that as encouragement to inspire artists, particularly young ones, to develop their potential and continue their work in Serbia.

How would you describe those seven years?

- In three words: exciting, challenging and successful! In this period the As an investor and a member of the Foreign Investors Council, we are market has gone through a development process, from voice to data. Us- advocating a stable and predictable business environment, which is ers in Serbia are currently just as demanding as those on the developed sometimes rather challenging in Serbia. For example, the postponemarkets of Europe, in terms of mobile data usage, internet speed, data ment of fixed number portability prevents our customers from changing capacity and good coverage. They are buying smart devices, moving operator and imposes unequal opportunities on our potential users. more toward post-paid and expect their provider to enable a seamless Then there is further implementation of technology neutrality, which should be speeded up. The governexperience and convergent solutions. ment has resolved several issues on Thus, we have launched our Smart At the end of the day, we have to maintain this topic. However, there is much work Network in such a way that it can cona good and progressive dialogue with the ahead, such as the swift implementastantly grow and get smarter along with our users. We have bought the government, but we should not forget that we tion of the technology neutrality plan allowing us to use current bands for fixed license and, despite the lack of are here to do business new technologies that end-users will fixed number portability, the number of our customers in this segment is constantly growing. We are moving benefit from, like the much talked-about LTE or 4G technology. toward offering total Telco solutions to our customers and are constantly improving our mobile services in addition. Likewise, just recently we ■ What are the company’s most significant investments in technology introduced HD voice, a free-of-charge service that allows our customers and development? to enjoy impeccable sound while talking over their smart devices.

- Since entering this market in 2006 Telenor has invested €1.53 billion to date and still represents the single largest investment in Serbia. Ad■ What were the biggest challenges and greatest successes for the ditionally, we have invested several hundred million Euros in building infrastructure that can support increased data transfer and high user company in that period?

- The fact that we became Serbia’s market-share leader in revenue is one expectations in terms of speed and data capacity. Besides investments of our greatest successes. This has proven that we have made bold and in the network and corporate social responsibility, the initial investment smart decisions on the market, delivering on a well prepared strategy in a in acquiring KBC Bank reached €40 million, mostly in the first year. rather tough business environment during a rough time for the economy.

As I said, in 2010 we became the owners of the second fixed-line li- ■ In terms of innovation and development, how does Telenor Serbia cense in Serbia, which gave us an opportunity to further invest in the rank in the company’s global system?

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- In some areas Telenor Serbia is the leader within the Telenor Group.

For example, if we take customer satisfaction as an indicator of successful performance (KPIs), commonly used for the service industry around the world, Telenor Serbia is by far the leader in the group. This is a result of a good strategy and very diligent and competent people in the company and I think Telenor Serbia’s experience and good business practice can contribute to other business units of the Telenor Group. There are many managers from Serbia working for the group now helping other Telenor business units around the world and several of our high level managers are now in Bulgaria working for Globul, which was recently acquired by Telenor.

We must not forget to mention the company’s very good financial performance, with double-digit growth last year placing us ahead of our other units across Europe.

■ How are Telenor’s operational results so far in 2013?

- In terms of financial indicators, Telenor Serbia reported steady growth compared to the same period last year. Revenues in the first half of 2013 amounted to more than RSD 21 billion, representing a six per cent increase year-on-year. The number of subscribers has also risen and capital investments remain intensive in 2013, focusing on further expansion and improvement of the network and the IT stack. We are committed to continuing to improve the quality of service to our customers, while increasing network speed and data capacity through further investments in our infrastructure and information systems.

■ Telenor opened several free internet parks in Serbia this year. Tell us more about that project.

- Internet access for everyone at any time in parks in open air is an idea we developed six years ago, in June 2008. The first Internet Park in Serbia was Students’ Park in Belgrade, which marked the beginning of Telenor’s new project aimed at improving PC literacy and making the internet available to as many people as possible. Since then internet parks have spread all over the country and Telenor has opened more than 30 parks in 16 cities all over Serbia. I must mention that local municipalities gave tremendous contributions to this project. Without their assistance many of these parks would still be internet-free green zones.

Citizens all over Serbia reacted very positively to this original idea, which not only made their net surfing easier, enabling them to get informed and entertained, but also significantly contributed to development of the local community and society at large.

■ Telenor recently presented its new Android application, E-guide to eco destinations in Serbia. What is this project about?

- Our Telenor Foundation has supported the Eco Virtour project, which includes the Android Application developed to provide information on eco travel destinations and the natural and cultural heritage of Serbia for all local and foreign tourists, as well as all people who like Our network is our competitive advantage nature and enjoy outdoor holidays.

This virtual eco tour app targets users and we want to further improve the who want to experience protected outservice quality and network coverage we door areas in Serbia and those who want to connect with nature digitally before have in the region they actually go and see these desti■ As one of the leading investors in Serbia, how would you evaluate the nations. The app features some of the most beautiful parts of Serbia, current economic climate in the country compared to the period when like Fruška Gora National Park, Tara National Park, Kopaonik or Đavolja Varoš Natural Landmark.

Telenor arrived here?

- I believe that Serbia today has many opportunities, considering its With this project we have connected natural beauty spots with modcompetent workforce with high level skills, attractive cost level and ern technologies, presenting the finest landscapes in a modern fashion good geographic position. There is an opening to attract foreign inves- available to all users of smart devices and the internet. tors and develop the ICT industry and the Serbian economy. However, the government needs to stimulate this process by creating a stable ■ What new developments can we expect from Telenor in the near future? and predictable working environment with less red tape.

-In short, new products and services, the latest smart devices, advanced Public consultations and active sector involvement in important legis- mobile financial services and convergent solutions for business cuslative decisions are a prerequisite for the creation of a predictable and tomers. stable regulatory environment, which would consequently bring more Looking at this region at this moment, Telenor has operations in Serbia, investment to Serbia.

Montenegro, Hungary and Bulgaria. In order to deliver best-in-class exAt the end of the day, we have to maintain a good and progressive perience for customers in the region, we will strengthen our regional dialogue with the government, but we should not forget that we are cooperation and integrate the network and IT services. Our network is here to do business. The big international companies, along with the our competitive advantage and we want to further improve the service FIC, could assist the government in shaping the playing field in the best quality and network coverage we have in the region. A few days ago we possible form from a business perspective. The regulatory body is quite also opened our new Contact Centre in Subotica, which will employ adclear on where they want to go, but we can always challenge them by ditional Serbian and Hungarian agents who will serve customers from reminding them that they’re not getting there fast enough to follow both countries. Delivering the best-in-class customer experience is our market developments and needs. vision for the future. ■ Norway | World Markets and Opportunities | 57

Norwegian Economy

The World’s Best Functioning Country Norwegians enjoy the second highest GDP per-capita (after Luxembourg) and fourth highest purchasing power parity (PPP) per-capita in the world. Today, Norway ranks as the second wealthiest country in the world in monetary value, with the largest capital reserve per capita of any nation

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orway’s economy is an example of a mixed economy, with a prosperous capitalist welfare state featuring a combination of free market activity and large state ownership in certain key sectors.

The Norwegian welfare state includes free public health care (above a certain level), while new parents have 46 weeks paid parental leave. The income the state receives from natural resources includes a significant contribution from crude oil production and income related to this sector is substantial and carefully managed. Norway has a very low unemployment rate, currently at 2.6%, while some 30% of the workforce is employed by the government, the highest among the OECD countries. Norway’s hourly productivity levels and average hourly wages are among the highest in the world. The egalitarian values of Norwegian society ensure that the difference between the salaries of lowest paid workers and those of the CEOs of most companies is much smaller than in comparable western economies. This is also evident in Norway’s low Gini coefficient.

The state has large ownership over key industrial sectors, such as the strategic

In 1994 the Norwegian government established the sovereign wealth fund, which is funded by oil revenues

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petroleum sector (Statoil and Aker Solutions), hydroelectric energy production (Statkraft), aluminium production (Norsk Hydro), the largest Norwegian bank (DnB NOR) and the telecommunications provider (Telenor). Through these major companies, the government controls approximately 30% of the stock values at the Oslo Stock Exchange. When non-listed companies are included, the state has an even higher share of ownership (mainly from direct oil license ownership). Norway is a major shipping nation and has the world’s 6th largest

merchant navy, with 1,412 Norwegianowned merchant vessels.

Norwegians enjoy the second highest GDP per-capita (after Luxembourg) and fourth highest purchasing power parity (PPP) per-capita in the world. Today Norway ranks as the second wealthiest country in the world in monetary value, with the largest capital reserve per capita of any nation. According to the CIA World Fact Book, Norway is a net external creditor of debt. Norway maintained first place in the world according to the UNDP Human Development Index (HDI) for six consecutive years (2001–2006) and then reclaimed this position in 2009 and 2010.

The standard of living in Norway is among the highest in the world.

Foreign Policy Magazine ranks Norway bottom of its Failed States Index for 2009, judging Norway to be the world’s best functioning and most stable country.

Continued oil and gas exports, coupled with

a healthy economy and substantial accumulated wealth, lead to the conclusion that Norway will remain among the richest countries in the world in the foreseeable future.

Export revenues from oil and gas have risen to almost 50% of total exports and constitute more than 20% of GDP. Norway is the world’s fifth largest oil exporter and third largest gas exporter, though it is not a member of OPEC. In order to reduce overheating in the economy from oil revenues and minimise uncertainty from oil price volatility, and in an effort to provide a cushion against the effects of an aging population, the Norwegian government established the sovereign wealth fund (“Government Pension Fund — Global”) in 1995, which is funded from oil revenues, including taxes, dividends, sales revenues and licensing fees.

The government controls its petroleum resources through a combination of state ownership in major operators in the oil fields (with approximately 62% of ownership in Statoil in 2007) and the fully state-owned Petoro, which has a market value worth about twice that of Statoil, and SDFI. Finally, the government controls licensing for the exploration and production of oil fields. The fund invests in developed financial markets outside Norway. The budgetary rule (“Handlingsregelen”) is to spend no more than 4% of the fund each year (assumed to be the normal yield from the fund).

In March 2011 the controlled assets of Norway’s Government Pension Fund were valued at approximately

Norway is also the world's second largest exporter of fish and the 6th largest arms exporter in the world

Norwegian Government Building

US$570 billion (equating to US$114,000 per capita), which is about 140% of Norway’s current GDP. It is the world’s second largest state-owned sovereign wealth fund, second only to the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority. Conservative estimates suggest that the fund may reach US$800–900 billion by 2017. Projections indicate that the Norwegian pension fund may become the largest capital fund in the world. The fund controls approximately 1.25% of all listed shares in Europe and more than 1% of all publicly traded shares in the world. The Norwegian Central Bank operates investment offices in London, New York and Shanghai. Guidelines introduced in 2007 allow the fund to invest up to 60% of the capital in shares (the previous maximum was 40%), while the rest may be placed in bonds and real estate. As the stock markets tumbled in September 2008, the fund was able to buy more shares at low prices. In this way, the loss incurred by the market turmoil was recuperated

by November 2009.

Other countries with natural resource-based economies, such as Russia, are trying to learn from Norway by establishing similar funds.

The investment choices of the Norwegian fund are directed by ethical guidelines. For example, the fund is not allowed to invest in companies that produce parts for nuclear weapons. This highly transparent investment scheme is lauded by the international community.

The future size of the fund is, of course, closely linked to the price of oil and developments in international financial markets. Norway’s trade surplus for 2008 reached approximately US$80 billion.

With an enormous amount of cash invested in international financial markets, Norway had the financial muscle to avert many of the worst effects of the financial crisis that hit most countries in the autumn of 2008. As most western countries continue to struggle with burgeoning foreign debt, Norway remains a nation of stowed-away wealth and financial stability, with the economic power to meet the challenges of the worldwide economic crisis. In spite of the crisis, Norway still runs a 9% state budget surplus and was the only western country to run a surplus in July 2009.

In 2000 the government sold a third of state-owned oil company Statoil in an IPO. A year later the main telecom supplier, Telenor, was listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange. The state also owns significant shares in Norway’s largest bank, DnB NOR, and the airline SAS. Norway’s economic growth has been rapid since the year 2000, pushing unemployment down to levels not seen since the early 1980s (unemployment in 2007 totalled 1.3%). The international financial crisis primarily affected the industrial sector, but unemployment remained low and was at 3.3% (86,000 people) in August 2011. Norway was among the countries least affected by the international economic downturn. Neighbouring Sweden experienced substantially higher actual and projected unemployment figures as a result of the ongoing recession and in the 1st quarter of 2009 Norway’s GNP surpassed Sweden’s for the first time in history, despite a population numbering about half that of Sweden.

Norway is also the world’s second largest exporter of fish (in value, after China) and the 6th largest arms exporter in the world. Hydroelectric plants generate roughly 98–99% of Norway’s electric power, more than any other country in the world. ■

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Economic cooperation

Progress Hindered by Global Crisis In 2012 Norway ranked 42nd of 164 countries receiving Serbian exports and 53rd of 204 countries that Serbia imported from.

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orway could be classified as a relatively important trading partner of Serbia, considering that in 2012 it was ranked 42nd of 164 countries that Serbia exported to and 53rd of 204 countries that Serbia imported from.

In terms of total Serbian exports and imports, Norway’s share is 0.11% and 0.09% respectively.

In the period from 2005 to 2012, the export/import tendencies and the balance of trade between Serbia and Norway were characterised by growing trade activities, especially exports which were almost equal to imports in 2008. This tendency was interrupted by the global financial downturn in 2009. Serbia exported US$13.1 million worth of goods to Norway in 2012 and imported goods worth US$16.5 million from Norway, making the trade deficit US$3.4 million.

In terms of the export-import ratio in trading with Norway in 2008, Serbian imports from Norway were almost the same as exports. The growth of this indicator was also interrupted by the global economic crisis in 2009 and in 2012 the ratio stood at 79.53%.

The biggest Norwegian investment in Serbia was the acquisition of mobile telephone company Mobi 63 by Norwegian company Telenor. In early August 2006 the Ser-

in Serbia, for which the company offered to pay â‚Ź1.15 million. Telenor was issued a ten-year license with the possibility of extending it for another ten years and an obligation to start providing commercial telephony services within a year of the allocation of the license.

There are a total of 16 local and regional chambers of commerce in Norway.

Their work is coordinated by the Norwegian Chamber Association (NHC), which

The biggest Norwegian investment in Serbia was the acquisition of mobile telephone company Mobi 63 by Telenor bian government and Telenor signed a sales contract stipulating the sale of Mobi 63 and the granting of a mobile telephony license to the Norwegian national company.

Telenor was also allocated a license to become the second landline operator

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is an association of all chambers of commerce in the country. Membership of Norwegian chambers of commerce is voluntary for commercial companies and cooperation with these chambers is only possible on a commercial basis. â–

People and customs

Shy Lovers of Nature Norwegian society, with a population of just over five million, promotes cultural sharing

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he name Norge (“Northern Way”) originally pertained to a region of the country before political consolidation under Harald Fairhair around 900 AD. In later use the country’s name indicates its location on the northern periphery of Europe. Some of the northerly sections of the country are home to at least two main groups (coastal and mountain) of an indigenous population of Sami (previously called Lapps), with their own separate language and distinct cultural traditions. Some groups of Sami practice nomadic culture based on the movements of the reindeer and range across northern Sweden and Finland. A smaller Gypsy population was also part of the otherwise homogeneous population. For humanitarian reasons, in the late 20th century Norway welcomed asylum seekers and immigrants from other countries. Norwegians have an acute sense of identity fostered by a 19th century national romantic movement and the country’s emergence in 1905 as an independent constitutional monarchy. The small scale of Norwegian society, with a population of just over five million, also promotes cultural sharing.

Norwegians may seem a bit shy, but this is partly because they do not like to “meddle” or interfere with others’ lives, so normally they will wait to see how open you are and how willing you are to share with them, before they open up to you.

Norwegians are great lovers of the outdoors and you will rarely meet one who doesn’t practice an outdoor sport or recreational activity (such as walking – often strenuous hikes on mountain trails or through woods.) They enjoy their rich natural environment and its great beauty, so they spend a lot of time outdoors, engaged in many different activities, come rain or shine or snow. In a most important perspective, Norwegians are very proud of their country and talk a lot about it (as many of us may do about our own country). They especially like it when visitors show an interest in Norway’s land, culture and heritage.

Norwegians are great lovers of the outdoors and you will rarely meet one who doesn’t practice an outdoor sport or recreational activity

Being punctual is a matter of showing respect. It is considered very important for business meetings (better to arrive five minutes early) and generally important even for private appointments, but for formal dinners it is acceptable and even customary to arrive some 10 minutes after the agreed time.

Norwegians usually take off their shoes when entering a private home (unless expressly instructed to keep them on). This is particularly important in winter, as dirt, slush and salt may ruin the floors. For formal parties in the winter season it is possible to bring an extra pair of shoes.

The food considered by many to be most typically Norwegian is brown cheese that is thinly sliced with a cheese plane (a Norwegian invention) and eaten on bread. Breakfast (frokost) usually consists of coffee, breads (including flatbread or crisp bread), pickled or smoked fish, cold meats, perhaps boiled eggs and dairy products such as cheese, butter, yoghurt and varieties of sour milk. Breakfast may be more substantial than the noon meal (lunsj), which may consist of an open sandwich of bread, cheese, paté, or cold meat, perhaps accompanied by a piece of fruit and coffee. Fish and meat (pork, beef, lamb, chicken and whale) and boiled potatoes, usually served with gravy or melted butter, traditionally define the late afternoon meal (middag). Root vegetables, such as carrots, often supplement potatoes.

Beer or wine is drunk occasionally in the evening. Pizza and hamburgers are popular occasional meals and are often served at fast food restaurants. Cafés and cafeterias serve open sandwiches with cold meats, smoked fish, or cheese, as well as simple but substantial meals of meat or fish and boiled potatoes. Chinese, Indian and other ethnic restaurants often occupy the medium-price niche, while restaurants with seafood and continental cuisine are the most expensive. In the last several decades the cuisine has become more diversified and international. The consumption of fatty foods has dropped in the last twenty years, while consumption of meat has never been higher and eating fish is less popular. ■

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Norwegian Culture

Creation in Ice and Wood The culture of Norway is closely linked to the country's history and geography.

The unique Norwegian farm culture, sustained to this day, has resulted not only from scarce resources and a harsh climate, but also from ancient property laws.

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emerged in Viking Age Norway and continued with little change into the age of firearms – and in many respects even into the early 20th century. It has been described as being unique in Europe and was widely celebrated in Norwegian literature during the romantic nationalist movement.

The farm culture had to be preserved as such through idealism as the years passed and new music and other impulses reached Norway during the 20th century. Folk music in Norway and Nynorsk (New Norwegian – one of Farm culture The Norwegian farm culture (Norwegian: two official written standards for the Norwebondekultur) was a rural movement unique gian language, the other being Bokmål) were in terms of values and practices which first symbols of the Norwegian counter-culture for many years.

When radio broadcasting began in Norway, the broadcasting company soon gained its own folk music programme and while this was welcomed in the rural areas (people gathered in silence each Sunday evening at the home of the nearest farmer with a radio), the folk music was resented in urban areas. Tensions were great and many angry readNorwegian farm ers protested against efforts to n the 18th century it brought about a strong romantic nationalist movement, which is still visible in the Norwegian language and media. In the 19th century Norwegian culture blossomed as efforts continued to achieve an independent identity in the areas of literature, art and music. This continues today in the performing arts and as a result of government support for exhibitions, cultural projects and artwork.

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bring the hardanger fiddle into their homes.

As a rule, the people of Oslo neither liked nor understood this music. The protests also resulted in the throwing of stones through the windows of Eivind Groven, who was responsible for the folk music programmes.

In the other area, Nynorsk, debates raged for many years and had to be silenced through political agreement as late as 1959. Prejudice, mostly directed against Nynorsk, prevailed for many years and is still a prominent feature amongst teenagers in Oslo. The right-wing parties are still trying to garner the votes of young people by using this argument.

Film

Nils Gaup

Norwegian cinema did not receive international recognition until fairly recently, but as early as 1959 Arne Skouen’s Nine Lives was in fact nominated for an Oscar. Pinchcliffe Grand Prix, an animated feature film directed

by Ivo Caprino and released in 1975, is based on the characters created by Norwegian car-

toonist Kjell Aukrust. It is the most widely seen Norwegian film of all time.

The real breakthrough, however, came in 1987 with Nils Gaup’s Pathfinder, which told the story of the Sami. It was nominated for an Oscar and was a huge international success.

Berit Nesheim’s The Other Side of Sunday was also nominated for an Oscar in 1997.

Since the 1990s the film industry has thrived, with up to 20 feature films produced each year. Particular successes came for Kristin Lavransdatter’s The Telegraphist and Gurin with The Foxtail. Knut Erik Jensen was among the more successful new directors, together with Erik Skjoldbjaerg (remembered for Insomnia).

Literature

Henrik Ibsen

Several Norwegian authors have been awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, namely Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson in 1903, Knut Hamsun in 1920 and Sigrid Undset in 1928 for Kristin Lavransdatter. Though he was not awarded a Nobel Prize for his plays, as the first of these were awarded after he published his last play in 1899, playwright Henrik Ibsen is probably the most famous figure in Norwegian literature. Ibsen wrote plays such as Peer Gynt, A Doll’s House and The Lady from the Sea. Other famous Norwegian writers from the realistic era include Jonas Lie and Alexander Kielland who, along with Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson and Henrik Ibsen, are regarded as the “four greats” of Norwegian literature.

Also of importance to Norwegian literary culture is the Norse literature and, in particular, the works of Snorre Sturlason, as well as the more recent folk tales collected

by Asbjørnsen and Moe in the 19th century.

Norwegian literature attained international acclaim in the 1990s with Jostein Gaarder’s novel Sophie’s world (Sofiesverden) which was translated into 40 languages. Other noteworthy writers with an international profile include Erik Fosnes Hansen (Psalm at Journey’s End) and Åsne Seierstad, whose controversial work The Bookseller of Kabul proved particularly successful in 2003.

Architecture Norway has always had a tradition of building in wood. Indeed, many of today’s most interesting new buildings are made of wood, reflecting the strong appeal that this material continues to hold for Norwegian designers and builders.

In the early Middle Ages stave churches were constructed throughout Norway. Many of them remain to this day and represent Norway’s most important contribution to architectural history. A fine example is The Stave Church at Urnes, which is now on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Another notable example of wooden architecture is the Bryggen (wharf) in Bergen, consisting of a row of narrow wooden structures along the quayside.

In the 17th century, under the Danish monarchy, cities such as Kongsberg, with its Baroque church, and Røros, with its wooden buildings, were established.

Oslo only became the capital city after Norway’s union with Denmark was dissolved in 1814. Architect Christian H. Grosch designed the oldest parts of the University of Oslo, the Oslo Stock Exchange and many other buildings and churches.

At the beginning of the 20th century the city of Ålesund was rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style.

The 1930s, when functionalism dominated, became a strong period for Norwegian architecture, but it is only in recent decades that Norwegian

Borgund Stave Church

architects have truly achieved international renown. One of the most striking modern buildings in Norway is the Sami Parliament in Kárášjohka, designed by Stein Halvorson and Christian Sundby. Its debate chamber is an abstract timber version of a Lavvo, the traditional tent used by the nomadic Sami people.

Art For an extended period the Norwegian art scene was dominated by artwork from Germany and Holland, as well as by the influence of Copenhagen. It was only in the 19th century that a truly Norwegian era began, first with portraits and later with even more impressive landscapes. Johan Christian Dahl (1788–1857), originally from the Dresden school, eventually

Kvalbein Farm: Kitty Lange Kielland

returned to paint the landscapes of western Norway, defining Norwegian painting for the first time.

Norway’s new-found independence from Denmark encouraged painters to develop their Norwegian identity, especially with landscape painting by artists such as Kitty Kielland (1843–1914), an early female painter who studied under Gude, Harriet Backer (1845–1932), another pioneer among female artists who was influenced by impressionism, Frits Thaulow (1847–1906), an impressionist influenced by the art scene in Paris, as well as Christian Krohg (1852–1925), a realist painter famous for his paintings of prostitutes.

Of particular note is Edvard Munch (1863– 1944), a symbolist/expressionist painter who gained renown worldwide for his painting The Scream, which is said to represent the anxiety of modern man.

Other artists of note include Harald Sohlberg (1869–1935), a neo-romantic painter remembered for his paintings of Røros, and Odd Nerdrum, born 1944, a figurative painter who maintains that his work is not art but kitsch. ■

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Tourism

Power of the Nature As of 2008, Norway ranks 17th in the World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report

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orway is known for nature attractions like fjords, mountains and midnight sun, and is easily accessible by plane from most European countries.As of 2008, Norway ranks 17th in the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report.The fjords, mountains and waterfalls in Western and North Norway attract several hundred thousand foreign tourists each year. The culture of Norway evolved as a result of its sparse population, harsh climate, and relative isolation from the rest of Europe. It is therefore distinct from other countries in Europe in that it has fewer opulent palaces and castles, smaller agricultural areas, and longer travel distances.

Fjords Norway has the highest concentration of fjords in the world, and nowhere on earth are there more fjords than in Fjord Norway.

Norway’s coastline stretches over 25,148kilometres; without fjords and bays, the length would be only 2,532 kilometres.

Formed when the glaciers retreated, and seawater flooded the U-shaped valleys, the fjords have made Norway famous. Two of these, the Geirangerfjord and the Nærøyfjord, feature on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The Sognefjord, the longest, and the Hardangerfjord, famed for its cherry and

Sandviks Fjord

apple trees, are among the most visited. But the Lysefjord just outside Stavanger (home to the famous Preikestolen or Pulpit Rock), and the Nordfjord further north are also very popular holiday destinations. National Geographic Magazine has named the fjords “the best unspoiled travel destinations in the world”. And the respected American newspaper Chicago Tribune has included Norway’s fjords on its list Seven Wonders of Nature.

Fjord Norway has been chosen as one of four pilot destinations by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) for its program “Early adopters of the GSTC new Criteria for Destinations”. GSCT Criteria for Destinations outlines the minimum standard that a des-

Aurora Borealis The Northern lights (aurora borealis) are a common natural phenomenon, most commonly observed above the Arctic Circle between late autumn and early spring.

The northern lights belt hits Northern Norway in the Lofoten Islands, and follows the coast all the way up to the North Cape.

This means that no other place on earth offers better chances of spotting the lights, and one location in this area might be as good as another.

The northern lights belt hits Northern Norway in the Lofoten Islands, and follows the coast all the way up to the North Cape tination must achieve in order to be considered socially, culturally and environmentally sustainable. For a long time, many companies in the region have worked towards becoming sustainable and, as a pilot destination, Fjord Norway will analyse and provide feedback in regards to GSTC’s criteria. This is crucial for placing even greater focus on sustainable tourism.

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Northern Lights

Maximum chances of spotting the lights occur between the autumn and spring equinox (21 September - 21 March). However, the weather is also of importance, as the northern lights might be obstructed by clouds. You should avoid the full moon and places with a lot of light as they make the experience considerably paler. In summer, meanwhile, over the Arctic Circle the sun does not set, meaning visitors to Northern Norway enjoy 24 hours of daylight this time of year – a phenomenon known as “midnight sun”.

Vikings Famed for their boat building and navigation skills, the Vikings also had a reputation as raiders. They were, however, also traders, explorers and settlers, and the legacy from the Viking Age (AD 800-1050) lives on in Norway.

The Viking Ships Museum in Oslo is home to the world’s two best-preserved wooden Viking longships, both dating from the ninth century. Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg, in the Lofoten Islands; KarmøyKulturopplevelser in Rogaland; and Stiklestad National Culture Centre in Nord-Trøndelag are all good places to learn more about Viking history.

Sami people The vast county of Finnmark is the home of the Sami - Norway’s indigenous people. The Sami are the indigenous people of Norway.

Known for their colourful clothes and their huge herds of reindeer, the Sami have been living in northern Scandinavia for over 10,000 years. Today they have their own parliament in Karasjok (population: 3,000 inhabitants), the Sami capital of Norway, a town boasting a thriving Sami culture. Reindeer herding is still central to Sami culture, providing meat, fur and transportation - reindeer sledding is popular in Finnmark in winter.

North Cape Also in Finnmark, North Cape is the Europe’s northernmost point. The cape includes a 307-metre (1,007 ft) high cliff with a large flat plateau on top where visitors can stand and watch the midnight sun or the views of the Barents Sea to the north. A new visitor center was built in 1988 on Sami people the plateau with panoramic views, a cafe, restaurant, post office, souvenir shop, and a so-called super video cinema.Finnmark provides the perfect backdrop for a winter holiday, whether you are planning on plenty of activities or just to relax in peace and quiet. Every day, all winter, you can choose from a wide number of

Throughout history, Bergen has experienced many fires, since, traditionally, most houses were made from wood. This was also the case for Bryggen, and as of today, around a quarter dates back to the time after 1702, when the older wharf side warehouses and administrative buildings burned down. The rest predominantly consists of younger structures, although there are some stone cellars that date back to the 15th century.

Parts of Bryggen were destroyed in a fire in 1955. This enabled a thirteen-year archae-

Norway's coastline stretches over 25,148kilometres; without fjords and bays, the length would be only 2,532 kilometres exciting winter activities: snowmobile safaris, dog sledging trips, swimming in the Arctic, a visit to the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta, a visit to KirkenesSnowHotel, King crab safaris, Sami adventures, Hunting for the northern lights, a visit to the North Cape, cookery courses, deep-sea fishing…

Bryggen Bryggen (Norwegian for the Wharf), also known as Tyskebryggen is a series of Hanseatic commercial buildings lining the eastern side of the fjord coming into Bergen, Norway.

Bryggen has since 1979 been on the UNESCO list for World Cultural Heritage sites.

The city of Bergen was founded in 1070. The area of the present Bryggen constitutes the oldest part of the city. As the town developed into an important trading centre, the wharfs were improved. The buildings of Bryggen were gradually taken over by the Hanseatic merchants. The warehouses were filled with goods, particularly fish from northern Norway, and cereal from Europe.

North Cape

ological excavation to take place, revealing amongst other things the hitherto unimagined wealth of day-to-day runic inscriptions known as the Bryggen inscriptions. This area was used for the construction of Bryggen museum containing archeological remains, plus some old-style wooden houses, these being the six leftmost. Controversially, a brick hotel was also raised on the premises, which is seen behind these six houses. ■

Bryggen

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