identity and a sense of belonging. It connects people. It encourages tolerance and understanding, because when we learn about other cultures, we begin to appreciate different ways of life. And culture helps [...] from one another and find unity in diversity. And so the Menningarnótt in Reykjavík – as well as our own annual Mentanarnátt in Tórshavn – is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the diversity in our culture [...] helps us preserve history and give us an understanding of who we are. It connects the past with the present and inspires us to shape a better future.

producers. Food is one of the most powerful expressions of culture and values. It tells the story of the land it comes from and reflects the history, traditions, and aspirations of the people who create [...] forward to speaking with many of you during the break. After the next speaker, Ida Heiman Larsen, Deputy Secretary General of the Nordic Council of Ministers, Halla Nolsøe, Director of the West Nordic Cooperation [...] thrive—even through long periods of isolation. Elsewhere in the Nordic region, different conditions have led to different culinary paths, resulting in a rich diversity of tastes and experiences. Together