The Order of Rio Branco was instituted on February 5th, 1963, with the objective of distinguishing the meritorious service and civic virtues, stimulating the practice of actions and deeds worthy of honorable mention.
The Order of Rio Branco, named in honor of the Patron of Brazilian diplomacy – Baron of Rio Branco, comprises 5 classes, namely: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight, besides a Medal attached to the Order.
In 2024, the Brazilian Ambassador to Norway, Enio Cordeiro, decided to indicate BNCC Chairman Aage Thoen to be awarded this medal.
This is no small recognition, and Aage Thoen is no small name when it comes to the commercial and social relationship between Brazil and Norway. With strong ties to Brazil stretching all the way back to 1993 , with business and personal relations, we can say that Aage Thoen has been living and breathing Brazil for almost three decades. He is one of the founders of BNCC and holds the position as chairman since 2019.
Aage can be considered the backbone of BNCC and his career can look back on senior positions with the Norwegian Credit Bank ( DNC ) and the Aker Group parent company. His career stretches further on, from leadership and board positions in banks, industrials, shipping, offshore oil and gas, and ever since the establishment of his own family owned shipping company which over the last 25 years have been engaged in ship owning and operations of an owned fleet of car carriers, also calling on Brazil and south America from time to time.
He was also earlier a deputy member of the Board of the Norwegian Shipowners Association and presided as Chairman of the Oslo Shipowners Association for 8 years. Presently also now chairman of the Oslo Maritime Foundation.
The formal handover of the Rio Branco Order Medal took place in the Ambassadors residency on 18 April with a small ceremony to celebrate.
We are both excited and proud to share this news with our members !
