The Royal Norwegian Order of Merit was founded by our present King’s father, King Olav V, in 1985. It is conferred upon foreign and Norwegian nationals as a reward for their outstanding service in the interest of Norway. H.M. the King is the Grand Master of the Order.
Mr. Fujio Ota, a founder of Tumlare Corporation, and now the Chairman of its board, is, indeed, a most deserving recipient of the Order. His personal efforts, and those of Tumlare, have increased the flow of Japanese to Scandinavia and of Scandinavians to Japan. Tumlare Corporation, founded in Stockholm in 1972, has since evolved to become one of the leading incoming tour operators to Norway and Scandinavia. More than 100 000 guest nights in Norway alone in 2009.
Ota-san’s teaming up with Mr. Edmund Harris Utne and his son Hans Edmund of Hotel Ullensvang to establish the “Japan Hardanger Club” two years ago is a milestone in promoting bilateral cultural exchanges between Norway and Japan. The Club and other cultural exchanges are so important for developing the people-to-people contacts and friendships that inspire and support the efforts of our government to strengthen also the overall commercial and political ties between Norway and Japan.
Ota-san has teamed up with another important person, in both the public cultural sphere and in private personal sphere. Rio Yamase, who herself is making a unique contribution to cultural exchange, promoting Norwegian classical and folk music as well as culture here in Japan with her magic Hardanger Fiddle. This is a powerful husband and wife team. We wish them both all success and happiness.
Dear Ota-san, it is my honour and great pleasure to bestow upon you the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit. We are very appreciative of your considerable contribution to further developing the excellent relations between our countries and people.