fríggjadagur 12. september 2008síða 19

Vestnorden Travel Mart 2008 19 The heartbeat of Faroese culture The Nordic House, with its distinguished architecture, topped with a turf grass roof, is the centre of many major events and probably the most well known building in the Faroes. The Nordic House is frequently occupied, whether it is exhibi­ tions of a business nature or gallery displays of the latest Faroese fashion and design. The Nordic House is thus both used for creative events and business events and diplomats from all over the globe have had the pleasure of holding conferences in this building. A place of diplomacy Many people have experienced informal conversations and contacts that are established via small talk that occur in the stone set floor of the Nordic House lobby. International meetings between Scandinavian counsels and political parties are frequently held at the Nordic House with the exchange of northern culture being the vision at heart. Last winter the Faroese tax agency held their reception in the venue, when disclosing their new identity and institutional trademark and already on the 26th of September this year, the annual Industry event is scheduled to be in this venue, thus the Nordic House creates the framework of innovative thoughts and new beginnings. On the 1st of October in 2007, Mr. Bill Clinton trod the red carpet in the Nordic House and his visit left an imprint on the mindset of all Faroese people and others as well. This splendid event encouraged the Faroese population and government to embark upon the journey towards globalisation. The former pre­ sident of the United States was impressed by the geographical position of the Faroe Islands, especially in relation to the cold war crisis in the 1980’s. Mr. Al Gore, the former vice president of the United States and Nobel prizewinner, also visited the Faroe Islands and this event was also held in the surroundings of the Nordic House. This was on the 13th of February 2008 and the key elements of Mr. Gore’s message were also about global events, and the safeguarding of nature. Globalisation and future The two major events mentioned above, were well broadcasted and interested the global media. Especially the visit of Mr. Bill Clinton focused attention at the excellent conference facilities available at the Nordic House. To meet national standards and improve up­coming events, the steering committee of the Nordic House has decided to advance the facilities, partly through reconstruction. The construction has been underway for months and is now almost completed, with a very satisfying result and great opportunities for future conferences and events, whether on a national or global scale. TÓRSHAVN The Nordic House in the Faroe Islands