Congressman Nick Langworthy hosted Swedish Ambassador to the United States, Urban Ahlin, for an official visit to Chautauqua County. The tour focused on Jamestown’s Swedish heritage and aimed to honor longstanding cultural and diplomatic connections between Sweden and the United States.
“I was thrilled to welcome Swedish Ambassador Urban Ahlin to the 23rd Congressional District to witness firsthand the vibrant Swedish-American heritage that is deeply rooted in Chautauqua County,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. “This historic occasion marked a rare and meaningful opportunity to host one of Sweden’s most respected diplomats and elected officials. Ambassador Ahlin’s visit allowed us to proudly showcase the lasting cultural, academic, and economic ties that bind our community to Sweden. It was a celebration of our shared history and a powerful affirmation of the strong partnerships we will continue to build for the future.”
The ambassador’s visit began with a Welcome Ceremony in Jamestown that celebrated local Swedish traditions while highlighting ongoing diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The itinerary included stops at several regional landmarks. The Chautauqua Institution, known internationally for its programs in lifelong learning and civil dialogue, was among them. Sheriff Qauttrone organized a boat tour on Chautauqua Lake as part of showcasing regional attractions.
Langworthy and Ahlin also joined members of the Norden Club of Jamestown for dinner at the Vikings Lodge on Chautauqua Lake.
On Wednesday, additional visits highlighted both cultural institutions and business links with Sweden. These included a guided tour of the Roger Tory Peterson Institute by its board members, as well as a stop at Jamestown Community College where Scandinavian Studies are part of academic offerings.
The delegation visited SKF Aerospace, part of Sweden’s SKF Group specializing in aerospace bearings, and TitanX Engine Cooling, which provides powertrain cooling solutions for commercial vehicles.
Further stops were made at First Lutheran Church—Jamestown’s oldest Swedish Lutheran congregation founded in 1856—and Ecklof Bakery, one of the few remaining family-owned Swedish bakeries in the area.
Photographs from Ambassador Ahlin’s visit are available online along with a recording of Tuesday’s Welcome Ceremony livestream.
