Jens Stoltenberg visited NHH: «This gives me energy»
More than 800 people attended Jens Stoltenberg’s mix of showmanship and financial lecture in NHH’s main hall. Almost as many wanted a selfie afterwards.
Humid air loosens collars. The crowd outside the auditorium is overwhelming. At the center: today’s most sought-after minister, who has just delivered his status report on wealth tax, macroeconomics, and oil wealth.
In the bustle outside NHH’s auditorium on Wednesday afternoon, Jens Stoltenberg puts into words what many are likely thinking:
«This gives me energy — meeting students. They are the future, and I’m almost a bit envious of them», says the former NATO chief and current Norwegian Minister of Finance.
Highlighting the Seriousness
«Norway in Turbulent Times» was the title of Stoltenberg’s presentation, but there was no trace of dystopia. On the contrary, the finance minister gestured and argued passionately: Norway’s economy is far from struggling, even though war rages, global powers clash, and trade barriers rise.
Stoltenberg acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, but also allowed room for humor, using concrete examples to emphasize his points.
«Every time I visit an academic institution and research center like NHH, I think: ‘This is where I should have been.’ But I completely failed at that and ended up in politics instead», said Stoltenberg, who holds a degree in economics.
Engaged Audience
A total of 850 attendees experienced the finance minister’s dynamic delivery. Students in the audience challenged him with questions, including on the topic of wealth tax.
«Very interesting», said Marianne Elisa Hoffmann afterward.
«He spoke in a way that was easy to understand and follow. And with the election coming up, it was great to hear from someone representing the Labour Party.»
«So, did it help you decide who to vote for?»
«It helped, yes. But I haven’t made up my mind yet.»
There was no hesitation, however, when the photo opportunity outside the auditorium arose.
«Suddenly, he was just there», said Hoffmann.
«Respect!»
And almost as suddenly, he was gone again, after a large press corps had gotten what they needed.
«Stoltenberg is a very good friend of NHH, despite being an economist from the University of Oslo. It’s great to hear him speak so warmly about the academic community here», summarized NHH Rector Helge Thorbjørnsen.
On his way out, Stoltenberg offered a handshake that left an impression:
«I have great respect for you», emphasized the finance minister.
Then the shiny, black cars disappeared — for now.