April, 1998

To whom it may concern

 

Re: the Otto Sverdrup Centennial Expedition - I Otto Sverdrups Kjølvann 100 år etter

I would like to bring to your attention a project which in a unique way will build stronger bonds between Canadian and Norwegian societies.

In 1999, Dr. Graeme Magor, an accomplished Canadian arctic explorer, will lead a wintering expedition to Framhavn on Ellesmere Island in celebration of Otto Sverdrup and of the centennial of his voyage in the famous FRAM to explore and study what has become northernmost Canada. Otto Sverdrup's fantastic achievements in Arctic Canada in 1898 - 1902 have not received the recognition they deserve. Nonetheless, Sverdrup remains an explorer of great historical significance both for Canada and for Norway. The vast arctic islands he discovered still bear the names he gave them. It was not until 1930, in an agreement where Canada agreed to pay Otto Sverdrup $67, 000 to cover the expenses for his expedition, that Norway withdrew its claim to these territories.

Dr. Magor intends to use this expedition for educational purposes in order to build awareness of our joint history and of the Arctic. He will do this through an active Internet site which through the winter of 1999 - 2000 will link schoolchildren in Norway and Canada via satellite to his winter camp in Framhavn. I have personally met with Dr. Magor, and I find that his plans are based on extensive arctic experience and sound educational objectives. I ask you sincerely to give this project your consideration for support and sponsorship as it will only be realized by generous private sector financial support.

The Expedition will have an extraordinary historical and educational dimension that will link our two countries by virtue of shared historical legacy, geography, and cultural values.

If you would like to contact me to discuss this matter further, please do not hesitate.

Yours sincerely,
NORWEGIAN TRADE COUNCIL

Knut O. Nesse
Trade Commissioner