The outgoing Norwegian Permanent Representative to the African Union, H.E. Mr. Morten Aasland paid a farewell call on H.E. Mr. Kwesi Quartey, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) at AU Headquarters as he ends his tour of duty.

After the exchange of pleasantries, the Deputy Chairperson congratulated Ambassador Aasland for his successful tour of duty in Africa’s diplomatic capital - Addis Ababa and commended his sterling contribution towards strengthening the existing diplomatic, political as well as economic relations between Norway and Africa.

Continuing, he underscored the Government of Norway’s contribution towards the development of Africa’s Blue Economy, peace and security, democratic governance and elections. These, he stated, will go a long way towards the attainment of Agenda 2063. He urged the Ambassador to continue to be the best advocate for Africa even as he takes up new roles in his Government.

On his part, Amb. Aasland expressed his appreciation to the entire leadership of the African Union for the warm working relationship he enjoyed during his tour of duty in Addis Ababa.

He conveyed the gratitude of the Prime Minister of Norway, H.E. Erna Solberg for the massive support Norway received from Africa Union Member States, in securing a two-year tenure at the United Nations Security Council.

He assured the Deputy Chairperson of the Government of Norway’s continuous support to the Union’s flagship projects, particularly, peace and security, the blue economy, elections observation and the joint financing agreement led by the European Union.

Both sides exchanged views on how to further deepen the existing cooperation between the Nordic Region and Africa.

H.E Quartey wished him well in his future endeavours.

For further media inquiries, please contact:
1. Mrs. Esther Azaa Tankou | Head of Information Division | Directorate of Information and Communication, African Union Commission | Mobile: +251911361185 | E-mail: yamboue@africa-union.org
2. Klenam Normanyo | Senior Communication Officer| Bureau of the deputy chairperson | African Union Commission| email: NormanyoK@africa-union.org |