Dalrymple, Nordic Mayor Sign Agreement at Norsk Hostfest to Expand Trade, Cultural Ties

Press Release

Gov. Jack Dalrymple and Terje Riis Johansen, mayor of Telemark, Norway, signed a memorandum of understanding today to further expand trade and cultural ties between North Dakota and Norway. Dalrymple and Johansen signed the agreement at the North Dakota State Fair Center in Minot, during a reception kicking off for the 36th annual Norsk Høstfest.

"Norwegian heritage has always been an important part of North Dakota," Dalrymple said. "I look forward to the many opportunities ahead as we work together to further build on our trade, cultural ties and friendships."

The Governor and First Lady Betsy Dalrymple were joined by a delegation of about 10 officials from Telemark and Skien, Norway. Dalrymple and Johansen last met in June when the Governor led a delegation of North Dakota business leaders on a trade mission to Norway.

The Nordic region -- Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark -- is considered worldwide to be a leading test market for new products and an easy-to-enter market for companies new to exporting. North Dakota's leading export products to Norway and other Scandinavian countries include value-added foods, agricultural and industrial equipment and other machinery.

The Norsk Høstfest, held Oct. 1- 5 at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds in Minot, includes food, exhibits and entertainment in celebration of North Dakota's Scandinavian heritage.

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