In response to invitations by the Red Cross Societies of Norway and Sweden and the respective governments of these countries, ICRC President Cornelio Sommaruga visited Oslo from 24 to 26 January and Stockholm from 27 to 29 January 1988.

In Norway, the President had talks with leaders of the Norwegian Red Cross, notably Mr. Björn Bruland, President, HRH Crown Princess Sonja, Vice-President, Mr. Odd Grann, Secretary General, Mr. A. Torbjornsen, head of the International Department, and Mr. J. Egeland, head of Information. Mr. Sommaruga also had meetings with the following representatives of the Norwegian Government and public administration: Mr. Gunnar Berge, Minister for Finance, Mrs. Gjesteby, Secretary of State at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, and Mrs. E. Nordbó, Secretary of State to the Prime Minister.