Durham University Welcomes Norwegian Ambassador to Strengthen Research Ties
Durham University hosted His Excellency, Tore Hattrem, the Norwegian Ambassador to the UK, this week. The visit focused on strengthening research and education ties between the two nations, with a particular emphasis on the refreshed Green Industrial Partnership.
Ambassador Hattrem engaged with students and staff, delivering a talk on 'Reflections on efforts for conflict resolution in Sri Lanka and Afghanistan'. He also attended the Energetic Future conference at St James' Park in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, where Durham academic staff participated as panellists.
The visit built on existing partnerships between Durham and Norway, which have a strong history of collaboration in research and education. This includes addressing global challenges such as climate change and energy. Plans were discussed to further strengthen these connections, following a UKRI-RCN cooperation agreement.
Durham's Vice-Chancellor and Warden, Professor Karen O'Brien, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global), Professor Claire O'Malley, met with Ambassador Hattrem to discuss energy, green transition, and research collaboration. This visit follows recent Norwegian engagement, including visits from the Norwegian Deputy Ambassador and delegations from Norwegian universities.
One notable collaboration is the 'INCLUDE' project, a research centre funded by the Norwegian Research Council, with Durham as a research partner. Durham students also benefit from educational links with Norwegian universities, including exchange opportunities and language courses.
The visit from Ambassador Hattrem highlights the growing relationship between Durham University and Norway. With a shared commitment to addressing global challenges and fostering research and education collaboration, both parties look forward to further strengthening their ties.
