Faroe Island Day : Event Report

On September 4–5, the Nordic Pavilion hosted a special program, “Faroe Islands Day.” The event marked the first official visit to Japan by H.E. Ms. Sirið Stenberg, Deputy Prime Minister / Minister of Foreign Affairs, Industry and Trade of the Faroe Islands, and served as an opportunity to showcase diplomacy, industry, culture, and the arts.

Diplomacy and Partnership

In her opening remarks, Minister Stenberg expressed a strong commitment to further strengthening economic and cultural exchanges with Japan, building on the Memorandum of Cooperation signed in 2022. Through Expo 2025, the Faroe Islands—small islands in the North Atlantic with a population of only 55,000—took an important step in deepening their ties with Japan.

Showcasing Culture and the Arts

The program featured sustainable wool fashion by the renowned Faroese design duo Guðrun & Guðrun, as well as the world premiere of “RØDD”, an interactive sound art installation by composer Jens L. Thomsen, inviting audiences into a dialogue of sound. In addition, visual artist Sigrun Gunnarsdóttir presented screenings and talks that reflected the landscapes and lives of the Faroese people, capturing wide attention.

Industry and Innovation

While rooted in its traditional fisheries, the Faroe Islands are expanding their global presence in aviation, seaweed production, and spirits. The event also highlighted forward-looking initiatives in e-governance, digital infrastructure, smart grids, and “Moon Energy” tidal power. These initiatives underpin the nation’s ambitious goal of achieving 100% renewable energy onshore by 2030.

Connecting Nature and the Future

Often called “one of the world’s most desirable islands,” the Faroe Islands continue to inspire globally by fusing unique culture with cutting-edge innovation, despite their small size. This event at the Nordic Pavilion left a lasting impression, serving as a bridge between nature and the future, between small islands and the global community.