Sehr geehrter Herr Ministerpräsident, verehrte Gäste, Minister, Exzellenzen, Wirtschaftsführer, Freunde Dänemarks und Deutschlands.

Königin Mary und ich freuen uns, wieder in Schleswig-Holstein zu sein – nun als Königspaar – und gleichzeitig einen Gruß von meiner Mutter, Königin Margrethe, zu übermitteln, die mit großer Freude an ihren Besuch im Jahr 2019 zurückdenkt. Die Verbindung zu Schleswig-Holstein und der dänischen
Gemeinschaft reicht weit zurück und ist so stark wie eh und je.

Allow me to continue in English.

It is a pleasure to be here today to officially open the conference on Cross-Border Infrastructure for the Green Transition, here at GEOMAR in Kiel.

For many Danes, including my family, Schleswig-Holstein holds a special place in both our history and in our hearts. Many Danes have roots here, and even more pass through the region from time to time – whether for work, studies, holiday, or visiting family and friends.

Thousands of Danes and Germans live peacefully on both sides of the border, setting an example for the rest of the world. Our minorities flourish together, contributing to both Danish and German societies. They share workspaces, schools, churches, and clubs. We can all be proud of this unique way of living together.

Germany and Denmark have a long-standing energy partnership that is of immense value to both our nations. Today, this cooperation is more relevant than ever. 

We share experiences on the green transition and learn from each other in areas such as wind energy, energy efficiency, and district heating. The partnership not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also highlights the significant cross-border business opportunities in green energy technologies.

The expansion of renewable energy sources, including offshore wind power in Denmark and Germany, is crucial for the continued electrification of our societies. And cross-border projects are key to achieving this.

With its vast green energy potential, the North Sea has the capacity to become a leading provider of renewable energy. By working together, we can ensure that energy from the North Sea powers German industries with green hydrogen and provides households with green electricity at highly competitive prices. 

Schleswig-Holstein has always played an important role in our shared history. Today, we are reminded of its significance for our common future. The partnerships and solutions introduced here today will certainly contribute to a greener tomorrow. 

I hope you are all inspired to foster green growth, and I wish you a productive and successful day.

Thank you.

(Det talte ord gælder)