Your Majesties, Ministers, Excellencies, business leaders, friends of Denmark.

An exciting and intense day has passed, leaving The Crown Princess and I highly motivated to continue further exploring the opportunities within green solutions and healthcare, when we visit Leiden, Delft and Rotterdam tomorrow.

Tonight, let us celebrate the close ties between our two countries. These extend to family relations that go back many, many years. We are delighted to visit the Dutch royal family and to return the state visit of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima in Denmark in 2015. And we extend our gratitude for the warm welcome, we have received.

As I mentioned this morning, Dutch-Danish relations have benefitted both countries for centuries and we continue to deepen these relations. Today, the Netherlands is Denmark’s 7th largest export market. And the potential for investments and collaboration is even greater.

With one country built on water and the other surrounded by it, we have throughout the centuries managed to turn challenges into opportunities.

This is a vital ability at a time where the world has become more insecure and unstable. The war in Ukraine, the climate disorder and demographic shifts are urgencies that need to be addressed.

Therefore, the partnerships and innovative solutions which we have established are crucial in building a sustainable future. Never have our countries’ friendship been more important.

I thank all the Danish and Dutch companies and associations who are here tonight and take part in finding the right solutions for the many complex challenges that lie ahead.

This visit aspires to boost partnership for green and smart solutions and add a new dimension to Dutch-Danish relations. Witnessing the vivid exchanges today, I am confident we are heading in the right direction.

Let the shared ambitions pave the way for new ideas and stronger cooperation. And let us take a moment to enjoy and share the wonderful culinary experience and entertainment that have been prepared for us tonight.

I wish you all a great evening, hoping it will lead to closer friendships between the Netherlands and Denmark. It is more important than ever.

Thank you.

 

(Det talte ord gælder)