He was joined by representatives from Edinburgh Candlemakers, the Norwegian Embassy and the Norwegian Honorary Consulate General, marking the start of the city’s festive celebrations.
Honorary Consul General of the Norwegian Consulate General in Edinburgh, Professor Julian Jones said: “The Christmas tree symbolises all that is best about what Norway and Scotland, and what Vestland and Edinburgh, have in common. Every year Vestland gives a Christmas tree as a gift to Edinburgh, as a ‘thank you’ for the help received from Scotland during the Second World War.
“Norway and Scotland are neighbours, and we have a common history going all the way back to the Viking times. There are strong ties between Edinburgh and Vestland, and our culture and our heritage bring us together in our Christmas festivities, with a splendid concert in St Giles cathedral following the lighting of the Tree, with Scottish and Norwegian musicians.
“The Christmas tree celebrates all that we have done together in the past, and all that we will do together in the future.”
1. All lit up
The event saw Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, Counsellor Dr. Øystein Lund and Honorary Consul General Professor Julian Jones from the Norwegian Honorary Consulate General, come together to switch on the lights of the stunning 18-metre-tall Christmas tree. | Edinburgh's Christmas Photo: Katie Casson
2. Tradition
This cherished annual tradition celebrates the strong ties between Scotland and Norway, honouring the Scottish people’s unwavering support for Norway during World War II. | Edinburgh's Christmas Photo: Katie Casson
3. Lord Provost
Edinburgh’s iconic Christmas tree on the Mound was officially lit on Monday, November 18 in a special ceremony led by Lord Provost Robert Aldridge (centre). | Edinburgh's Christmas Photo: Katie Casson
4. Norwegian Wood
Gifted by Vestland (formerly Hordaland), the tree stands as a symbol of Norway’s gratitude for Scotland’s assistance during its darkest days during World War II. | Edinburgh's Christmas Photo: Katie Casson