Norway, Palawan bolster efforts in environmental, social governance
PUERTO PRINCESA—THE Norwegian government is boosting ties with the leadership of Palawan Province, with an eye toward enhancing partnerships in various fields.
Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster led a delegation’s cordial visit to the province’s top officials on April 3. He was welcomed at the Provincial Capitol by provincial legal officer-lawyer Joshua Bolusa who represented Gov. Dennis Socrates, tourism promotions and development officer Maribel Buñi, health officer Dr. Faye Labrador, as well as Roots of Health Executive Director Amina Swanepoel.
The focus of discussions, Lyster said, centered on bolstering efforts in environmental and social governance, health care, and tourism sectors.
“We are exploring maritime, energy, and fisheries industry cooperation with the Philippines that will help the different sectors,” the ambassador said. “We are also expressing our support for the reforms and initiatives being undertaken by your government in terms of managing several issues and concerns.”
For the province’s part, Bolusa shared facts on Palawan’s development priorities, as he cited critical health initiatives aimed at improving public well-being.
The Palawan government official also highlighted the strategic approaches to bolstering tourism promotion, with focus on sustainable practices and community engagement. He hoped that the meeting will be the “start of a meaningful and fruitful relationship between Palawan and Norway.”
“Basically, tourism, agriculture, and the fishing industries are the major engines of growth for the province’s economic advancement,” he pointed out.