Danish Ambassador foresees stronger SL-Denmark business ties

• Cites growing opportunities
• Highlights potential for enhanced trade and investment as SL’s economy continues its recovery and business conditions improve
• Says had promising conversations with local business people and civil society members
• Around 20 Danish companies are already present in Sri Lanka and employs more than 3000 people

By Nishel Fernando

Denmark’s newly accredited non-resident Ambassador to Sri Lanka Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen has voiced strong optimism for deepening economic partnerships between the two nations. 

Following his first official visit to Colombo, Kristensen highlighted the potential for enhanced trade and investment, particularly as Sri Lanka’s economy continues its recovery and business conditions improve.

Kristensen, who is concurrently the Ambassador of Denmark to India, officially presented his credentials to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. He also engaged in a bilateral discussion with Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, reinforcing the existing positive relationship between the two nations.

“In just a few days, I’ve had promising conversations with local business people and civil society members,” Kristensen noted in a social media communication.

“It’s clear there is an opportunity to deepen partnerships and explore stronger business ties.”

The ambassador acknowledged the established presence of Danish enterprises in Sri Lanka, highlighting that “around 20 Danish companies are already present in Sri Lanka, employing more than 3000 people”. These firms are active in diverse sectors, including “transport and logistics, renewable energy and IT services”. 

Prominent Danish companies with operations in Sri Lanka include global shipping and logistics giant A.P. Moller - Maersk, the well-known beverage producer Sunquick (CO-RO A/S), pump and water technology leader Grundfos and the recently expanded electronics manufacturer GPV Group A/S.

Kristensen’s positive outlook is also fuelled by Sri Lanka’s improving economic indicators. 

“With the economy recovering after the crisis a few years ago and ease of business improving, there should be more opportunities for foreign trade and investment,” he stated.

This potential for growth is a two-way street. Sri Lanka currently exports a variety of goods to Denmark, with key products, including apparel and textiles, rubber products, machinery and electrical equipment, renowned Ceylon Tea and spices, processed fruits and nuts and ceramic items. Deepened business ties could see an expansion in these traditional exports and the development of new trade avenues.

Beyond commercial activities, Kristensen also reiterated Denmark’s commitment to “funding or supporting important development projects through UN agencies and Team Europe efforts” in Sri Lanka.

“This is a pivotal time for Sri Lanka. I look forward to coming back to the island and working closely with colleagues and counterparts in Colombo to build stronger ties with Denmark and Europe,” he said.

His visit and subsequent comments signal a renewed Danish interest in bolstering economic cooperation and exploring mutual growth prospects.