President Martens book presentation in Norway

On the 8th of May 2010, Wilfried Martens, President of the Centre for European Studies presented his book “Europe: I struggle, I overcome” in Oslo, Norway.

Mr. Martens was joined for the discussion by Mr. Ambassador Jan Petersen, Former Chairman of the Conservative Party in Norway, and Ms. Ine Eriksen Soreide, Chairwoman of the parliamentary committee for Foreign affairs in Norway. Other dignitary that joined the discussion after the presentation was Mr. Kaare Willoch, former Prime Minister (PM) in Norway when Martens was PM in Belgium, and Mr. Sven Stray, two times Foreign Minister in Norway.

Even though they have still not joined the European Union, Norway is already an important regional and global player both because of its strategic position in Northern Europe, but also as an Energy Superpower. It is a member of NATO and the Council of Europe, and has always been contributing in peace-making around the world.

President Martens launched his speech by declaring how grateful he was to see that so many people had showed up with an interest in his personal career and political engagement. His goal for the book presentation was an exchange of views and ideas about the future direction of Europe - to which he devoted most of my life and which has shaped his political beliefs.

After a thorough presentation of his book and ideas Mr. Martens concluded with the remarks One has to learn from history. In Belgium, in Norway, as well as in Europe. The danger that new generations, when lacking the knowledge of their own past would improvise solutions that already were proven to be wrong .The highly attended seminar finished off with the president signing over two hundred copies of his book.