Dear Members of the American-Danish Business Council,

As we continue to navigate the ever-changing framework conditions that COVID-19 imposes, we are also learning that business indeed goes on and finds ways to work – even in the most challenging of times. In fact, difficult times such as these often function as a catalyst for creating new ideas and solutions. As the year continues, the global pandemic has not just yet loosened its forceful grip on society. We must equip ourselves with continued patience and keep standing together (with distance) to keep everyone safe and get through this challenge together. The Danes have a word for this: “Samfundssind”. While not fully captured, it can be best translated into “community spirit” or “social mindedness” – to put the well-being of society at the forefront of our minds.

In the ADBC, we are determined to move on and work tirelessly for our objective of creating value for our members and ever-closer ties between the United States and Denmark, and while this year might have been quite unusual, we are optimistic that we will all be able to gather for a pronounced, physical celebration soon enough. At the moment we are, as most Americans and many others across the globe, committed to the 2020 Presidential Election. Regardless of outcome, this is exciting times for the United States but also for Denmark as one of its closest allies. We will be following the developments very closely, and we will provide information to our members whenever we can. A few weeks ago, we hosted a members-only pre-election briefing where I provided my insights and thoughts on the upcoming election. We additionally had the pleasure of having PEW Research Center provide insightful and data-driven public opinions on the central focal points of this year’s debates. I thank all who attended this event and I hope that you found it informative.

Looking into the remainder of 2020, the ADBC will have a board meeting to further discuss how to assist our members in the best possible way, and we are excited to host more virtual event for all of us to meet. In that regard, I welcome any input that members may have. Please reach out the ADBC secretariat if you have suggestions or aspirations, we are here and are always ready to discuss. Once the results are in from the election, we aim to host a post-election event for all members. More information on this will follow.

In closing, I wish you all a great election, and I hope that everyone is staying safe and healthy as we carry on our bilateral activities across the Atlantic in these unprecedented times.

Yours sincerely,
Lone Dencker Wisborg
Ambassador of Denmark to the United States