John Bjornebye, who is leaving for Oslo today after nearly five years in Tokyo as the Norwegian ambassador, expressed satisfaction that the two countries' relations have become more globally oriented.
Norway and Japan now work more closely on such issues as the peace process in the Middle East and so-called human security issues, including land mines, he said.
Bjornebye, who will take over the highest post for a career foreign service officer in his country — secretary general, or deputy foreign minister, in charge of economic affairs — hopes to return to Tokyo frequently for talks with his Japanese counterparts on economic and trade issues, the ambassador said during his Monday visit to The Japan Times.