Norway and Thailand have marked one hundred and twenty years of diplomatic ties by launching the From Sea to Sky campaign — a milestone initiative that symbolizes the depth of their enduring partnership. Spearheaded by a joint effort between Thai Airways and Seafood from Norway, this campaign not only commemorates a rich history of cooperation but also reinforces the shared commitment to sustainable trade, cultural exchange, and aviation-fueled connectivity.

Unveiled during a grand ceremony at the Norwegian Ambassador’s Residence in Bangkok, the campaign launch coincided with two other significant events: the sixty-fifth anniversary of Thai Airways and one year since the resumption of direct flights between Bangkok and Oslo. The event was attended by senior diplomats, corporate leaders, and media representatives, underscoring the international significance of this diplomatic celebration.

At the heart of this collaboration is Norway’s global leadership in seafood exports and Thailand’s role as its largest Southeast Asian market. Norwegian seafood — particularly salmon and fjord trout — has found a strong and growing consumer base in Thailand, known for its culinary appreciation of fresh, high-quality ingredients, particularly in dishes like sashimi and sushi.

Figures from the past year showcase a steady climb in trade between the two countries. The value of Norwegian seafood exports to Thailand surged by twelve percent year-on-year. Between January and April of the current year, exports of salmon and fjord trout rose by eighteen percent. Notably, over ninety percent of these seafood shipments are delivered fresh — a feat made possible through Thai Airways’ extensive cargo operations. This ensures that consumers in Thailand continue to enjoy the highest quality seafood within hours of its harvest.

This seamless supply chain is further supported by Thai Airways’ long-standing logistics collaboration with Norwegian exporters. As part of the airline’s ongoing modernization, its Bangkok–Oslo route will soon feature the cutting-edge Airbus A350-900 starting July 1, 2024. The new aircraft will offer improved efficiency, comfort, and environmental performance, coinciding with Thai Airways’ anniversary and the celebration of diplomatic ties.

Seafood makes up an impressive ninety percent of Thai Airways’ cargo capacity on flights between Norway and Thailand. Each day, between fifteen and eighteen tons of fresh seafood is transported, not only to Thailand but to other regional hubs such as Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and Singapore. This underscores the airline’s essential role in bridging continents and boosting both economies.

Economic cooperation between the two countries has witnessed remarkable expansion. Since 2000, bilateral trade has increased eightfold, now reaching approximately thirty-nine billion baht in 2024. Thailand accounts for more than half of that figure, with Norwegian exports — led by seafood and fertilizer products — making up the balance. Norway’s fertilizer exports reflect its expertise in nitrogen-based technologies, while Thailand contributes heavily to offshore oil rig production and wind energy components used in European infrastructure.

The seafood trade, in particular, has undergone a transformation guided by what industry experts call the “three nineties” principle. As of 2024, ninety percent of Norwegian seafood exported to Thailand is fresh, ninety percent of it consists of salmon and trout, and ninety percent of that is consumed raw — a trend that mirrors Thailand’s evolving taste for superior, fresh-imported fare.

Tourism also remains a vibrant area of cooperation. In 2023, Norwegian arrivals to Thailand reached one hundred and ten thousand, nearing pre-pandemic levels. These numbers are expected to grow further with the convenience of daily direct flights operated by Thai Airways. In return, more Thai travelers are discovering Norway’s natural wonders. In March 2024, Thai tourism to Northern Norway saw record highs, driven by interest in winter attractions such as the Northern Lights and snow-based adventures.

Beyond commerce and tourism, the campaign also emphasizes people-to-people connections — a fundamental pillar of Norway–Thailand relations. Whether through culinary exchanges, educational programs, or increased air connectivity, the partnership continues to thrive by nurturing mutual understanding and cultural appreciation.

The From Sea to Sky campaign also celebrates two decades of dedicated cooperation between Thai Airways and Norwegian seafood exporters. Their partnership has not only supported consistent trade growth but also enhanced Thailand’s role as a regional gateway for premium European products.

Looking ahead, both nations aim to build on this foundation with even stronger collaboration in sectors like sustainable fisheries, green aviation, and clean energy. As Norway and Thailand reflect on over a century of friendship, the campaign signals their commitment to evolving together in an increasingly interconnected world.

This one hundred and twenty-year diplomatic milestone is more than a ceremonial occasion — it is a living testament to a flourishing partnership rooted in respect, shared values, and a forward-looking vision. Whether through airborne cargo laden with Norwegian seafood or cultural exchanges that bring people closer, the relationship continues to expand from sea to sky — and beyond.

The post Thailand and Norway Unite to Honor One Hundred Twenty Years of Diplomatic Relations Through a Campaign That Highlights Culinary Trade Travel and a Forward-Looking Global Partnership: You Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.