Oslo - Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit was Monday awarded the country's Plussprisen prize for her efforts to combat HIV/AIDS. The prize - announced in connection with World AIDS day - was awarded by the Norwegian group HivNorway that was formed to safeguard the rights and interests of people infected and affected by HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
The princess is a goodwill ambassador for the joint United Nations programme, UNAIDS.
The 35-year-old princess shared the prize with Ragnhild Backstrom, who has worked to prevent discrimination against HIV-positive children.
Backstrom works to spread awareness about HIV in kindergartens, schools and local neighbourhoods.
Some 3,000 people live with HIV in Norway.
The Plussprisen has been awarded since 1997 with Britain's Sir Elton John a recipient in 1998.
