The Faculty of Economics, University of Niš, welcomed H.E. Kristin Melsom, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway, on 18 March 2026, for a visit that brought together students, academic staff, and participants in international cooperation projects. The event also provided an opportunity to highlight the Faculty’s growing collaboration with Norwegian institutions, including activities developed within the CROSS-REIS project.

The visit began with a reception at the Dean’s Office, where the Ambassador was welcomed by Prof. Dr. Vladislav Marjanović, Dean of the Faculty of Economics. The meeting served as an occasion to present the Faculty’s international profile, ongoing partnerships, and project-based cooperation with institutions from Norway and across Europe.

The central part of the programme was the Ambassador’s lecture, “Introduction to Norway 101,” delivered to students of the Faculty of Economics. In her presentation, Ambassador Melsom introduced students to Norway’s society, institutions, and international outlook, while also encouraging dialogue through a dynamic question-and-answer session. The lecture offered students a valuable opportunity to learn more about Norway from a diplomatic perspective and to engage directly with topics related to international cooperation, education, and contemporary global challenges.

Following the lecture, a discussion was held with Norwegian students, alongside a presentation of the results of joint projects between the Faculty of Economics and Norwegian institutions. This segment underscored the importance of long-term academic cooperation and showcased the Faculty’s active role in building international partnerships that strengthen research, mobility, and knowledge exchange.

The visit also resonated strongly with the objectives of the CROSS-REIS project, which promotes international networking, research excellence, and cross-disciplinary collaboration in support of regenerative economy innovation ecosystems. By hosting the Ambassador and presenting the results of joint initiatives with Norwegian partners, the Faculty further reinforced its commitment to connecting local academic development with broader European and international cooperation.

The programme concluded with an informal social gathering, providing additional space for exchange and networking among participants. The visit of Ambassador Kristin Melsom marked an important moment for the Faculty of Economics and its international community, reaffirming the value of dialogue, partnership, and shared efforts toward knowledge-based and sustainable development.