Thank the Norwegian Ambassador to the U.S. for Welcoming Keiko

The Norwegian local and federal officials have taken a very strong position in favor of allowing the Keiko project to continue. They have:

Made it clear that Keiko was welcome in Norway and was protected.

Implemented regulations to keep people from approaching Keiko too closely or feeding him.

Rejected the efforts of the Miami Seaquarium to capture Keiko in Norway. The Honorable Knut Vollebaek, Norwegian Ambassador to the U.S., stated: "In principle we are skeptical to keep huge animals like whales in captivity. In Norway there is no tradition for that. Also, we regard it as problematic in an animal welfare perspective to send the whale on the long voyage from Norway to Florida. At the moment the whale has a freedom that makes it possible for him to make choices."

Thousands of members of the Norwegian public had come to welcome and see Keiko, and are still celebrating him after his death. The local community of Halsa will continue to work for Keiko's legacy and memory.

Send your thanks to:

Honorable Mr. Knut Vollebaek
Norwegian Ambassador
Royal Norwegian Embassy
Washington, DC 20008

E-mail: emb.washington@mfa.no