Denmark views Ethiopia as a "global role model" for its ambitious environmental agenda, including the landmark Green Legacy Initiative, signaling Denmark's strong interest in partnering on green transition and expanding academic and people-to-people exchanges. Danish Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sune Krogstrup, made the remarks.
"Ethiopia has huge ambitions when it comes to addressing climate change," Ambassador Krogstrup stated, adding, "We’d like to partner with Ethiopia to continue on that green path and to make sure the jobs created here are green jobs." He noted that Denmark itself has launched a national tree-planting initiative, reflecting shared environmental goals between the two countries. The ambassador also stressed the critical importance of stronger climate cooperation between Europe and Africa, highlighting climate change as a key driver of instability, migration, and conflict.
Looking ahead, Denmark specifically seeks to expand academic and people-to-people exchanges with Ethiopia. Krogstrup mentioned a strategy launched by the Danish government in August 2024 that outlines plans to develop such programs across Africa, with Ethiopia identified as a priority partner.
These areas of focus are part of Denmark's broader commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with Ethiopia, which encompasses inclusive development and deeper political and cultural cooperation. Ambassador Krogstrup described the current bilateral cooperation as "very good and growing," built on a foundation laid by historical events such as Emperor Haile Selassie’s state visit to Denmark in 1954. He added that the two nations maintain "a good dialogue on many important issues."
Denmark's development cooperation with Ethiopia has seen significant progress, particularly since its first country program launched in 2018. According to the ambassador, a second five-year country program is currently being finalized, with a strong focus on resilience, green growth, water access, sustainable energy, and climate-smart agriculture. Social cohesion and support for the most vulnerable communities also feature prominently.
Ambassador Krogstrup acknowledged Ethiopia's pivotal role in the Horn of Africa and on the continent. "Ethiopia is the biggest country, the biggest economy in the Horn of Africa… it plays an important role as a stabilizing force on the continent," he remarked, affirming that both Denmark and the European Union consider Ethiopia’s stability and prosperity essential.
In terms of cultural diplomacy, the Danish Embassy regularly organizes events to showcase Danish culture, noting strong local interest, a practice they intend to continue. Many current cultural engagements are tied to Denmark's recent assumption of a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, a role Ambassador Krogstrup stated Denmark takes seriously, committed to amplifying African voices within the UN system.
Reflecting on his second posting to Ethiopia, the ambassador shared that the country feels like “a second home” for his family, expressing admiration for the Ethiopian people’s professionalism, honesty, and respectfulness. He also praised Unity Park as a place where Ethiopia’s rich history and culture are effectively presented, resonating with both citizens and foreigners. Observing developments in Addis Ababa since his August 2024 return, he noted rapid infrastructure and urban planning changes. "You can really tell that it’s a city that is growing fast," he commented, adding that managing this growth sustainably is a shared challenge for rapidly urbanizing cities in Africa, according to FBC.
Ambassador Krogstrup concluded by assuring Ethiopians that Denmark remains a loyal and engaged partner. "You can count on Denmark as a close partner to Ethiopia," he affirmed. "We stand by your side in your pursuit of sustainable development."