Norwegians have collectively defeated hatred, Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg said Sunday at a remembrance ceremony for the 77 victims of last month's twin attacks. “Together we have conquered hate. Together, let us embrace openness, tolerance and a sense of community,” he said, as thousands remembered the country's worst bloodshed since World War II. Norway's King Harald told citizens that freedom is stronger than fear Sunday, as the country concluded a monthlong mourning period with a candlelit memorial service to the 77 people killed by a right-wing extremist. Addressing the gathering of 6,700 people in Oslo's Spektrum arena, Harald said he felt for each person in the country, but that he was certain Norway would surmount its pain. “I firmly believe that we will uphold our ability to live freely and openly in our country,” he said.” Norwegian singer-songwriter Susanne Sundfoer opened the service with a heartfelt performance of a classic Norwegian song “My Little Country,” which has taken on special significance since the terror attacks. Elsewhere in the city, flags flew at half-staff as people lay flowers and children blew soap bubbles outside the cathedral. The ceremony in the arena, which also hosts the Nobel Peace Prize Concert, was broadcast live on national television and was attended by Norway's Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg, government members, lawmakers and leading politicians and royals from neighboring countries. The ceremony was set to include performances by some of Norway's top musical names, including 1980s pop group A-ha, soprano Sissel Kyrkjeboe, rap group Karpe Diem and the Norwegian Radio Orchestra.
