The Norwegian diplomat Kristian Netland arrived in Manila last week to begin his posting as Norway’s ambassador to the Philippines.
On Monday, he paid a courtesy call on the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs’ Chief of Protocol, Assistant Secretary Ariel Rodelas Peñaranda, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and friendship between Norway and the Philippines.
Netland succeeds Christian Halaas Lyster, whose posting as Norwegian ambassador to the Philippines concluded in July 2026.
A career diplomat, Netland has previously served at Norwegian missions in Indonesia, the Philippines and China. He has also worked at Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on peace and reconciliation and United Nations Security Council matters.
Norway and the Philippines have long-standing bilateral relations, particularly in the maritime sector, while cooperation also extends to business, labour migration, and peace and reconciliation efforts.
Netland is expected to formally assume his duties after presenting his credentials to the President of the Philippines.
