Orkney and Vestland twinning agreement reaffirmed

Links between Orkney and Norway were further sealed last week with the reaffirmation of the friendship agreement between the county and Vestland.

The long-standing twinning arrangement has been in place since 1983 – 40 years in 2023 - initially with Hordaland and the formal agreement was reaffirmed by Vestland County Council. The County of Vestland which was created in 2020 when the former counties of Hordaland and Sogn og Fjordane merged.

Orkney and Norway's longstanding relationship dates back many centuries to when the islands were populated by Norwegians in the late 700s.

Every Christmas a tree is delivered to Orkney as a gift from the region - with a delegation from Hordaland visiting as part of this every December as is possible.

Council Convener Harvey Johnston said: “We are delighted that the Vestland County Council has renewed the agreement which shows the strength of our enduring relationship with Norway. It is always an honour to welcome our Norwegian friends, old and new, to Orkney to celebrate Norwegian Constitution Day on 17 May and at Christmas time. A tree is gifted from the region which is lit up on the Kirk Green in front of St Magnus Cathedral to the delight of many.

“We have much in common with our northern neighbours and much to benefit from in terms of learning from one another’s experiences. As well as our old ties, we must look to the future and strengthen our economic links to our mutual benefit.”