Denmark's Ambassador to India, Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen, has stated that Copenhagen supports India's bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He emphasized that Denmark has made its position clear on several occasions and looks forward to India's potential membership. This statement was made during an interview with ANI on Friday.
Kristensen highlighted the growing bilateral ties between India and Denmark, with over 250 Danish companies operating in India across various sectors such as manufacturing, capability centers, and joint research and development. These companies employ over 100,000 people in India. The India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is expected to further strengthen economic ties and create more opportunities for businesses from both countries.
The people-to-people ties between India and Denmark are also growing stronger, with Indian professionals, students, and cultural influences contributing to Danish society. Kristensen noted that Indian citizens have migrated to Denmark for work and education, becoming an important part of Danish society. There are now over 150 Indian restaurants in Copenhagen, and the Indian community brings music and cultural diversity to Denmark.
Denmark has recently approved a collective agreement-based work permit scheme that includes Indian professionals, making it easier for Indian talent to work in Denmark. Kristensen stated that this move will facilitate Indian professionals in working for Danish companies. Denmark's strong economy and growing demand for skilled professionals in areas such as software and engineering have created opportunities for Indian talent.
India and Denmark have been cooperating in various sectors, including sustainability, agriculture, energy, and water. Kristensen mentioned that the partnership has resulted in practical outcomes, including projects under India's Jal Jeevan Mission. He recently visited Uttar Pradesh to inspect water projects supported by Denmark, which have provided clean drinking water to people.
Kristensen emphasized that the ties between India and Denmark are strong and growing by the day. The FTA will further enable this trajectory, allowing more Danish companies to invest in India and Indian companies to export to Denmark. This will be a win-win situation for both countries, promoting economic growth and cooperation.
The growing presence of Indians in Denmark has contributed to the country's cultural diversity. Kristensen described Indian citizens as "treasured citizens" of Denmark, bringing their culture, music, and values to the country. The cooperation between India and Denmark is expected to continue growing, with both countries benefiting from each other's strengths and opportunities.
Key points
- Denmark supports India's bid for a permanent seat in the UNSC.
- India and Denmark have strong bilateral ties, with over 250 Danish companies operating in India.
- Denmark has approved a work permit scheme for Indian professionals, making it easier for them to work in Denmark.
