Dear Members of the American Danish Business Council,

2020. That is a year I will hardly forget! It has been a year that in many ways feels like a whole decade, while at the same time, as if it passed by in an instant. Many things have transpired this year, and while it has indeed been quite challenging at times, I look back on a year that marks many great successes and accomplishments. 2020 was the year where working from home and interacting virtually became the new norm for most of us. But also, where solidarity and community spirit would bring us together to protect the most vulnerable in our societies.

The year started off not unlike many others, and the bilateral economic relationship was looking stronger than ever with the U.S. recently being declared Denmark’s largest export market. In the ADBC, we were ready for a year with great activities and engagement, not least our flagship events here at the Embassy, and with the upcoming Presidential Election in the fall, it was looking to be an eventful year. Little did we know that a global pandemic would strike us all and so radically change how we live our lives and interact with each other. However, while the pandemic left all of us in great uncertainty, we learned and found ways to navigate the situation, and I am confident that together we will come out even stronger.

Going into 2021, I am optimistic that we will be able to get back to a new normal and we will continue strengthening the ties between the U.S. and Denmark. Certainly, the eyes will be on the President Elect and the formation of a new U.S. Administration in the beginning of the year, and we will closely follow the transition period and look for opportunities for Denmark and the U.S. to work together. The change in leadership in the U.S. and expectations toward President Elect Biden are naturally something that greatly occupies the interest of the business community that is ever-eager to further the close relationship between our two nations. The ADBC will make it a priority to facilitate knowledge sharing, networking, and interaction in this regard.

Despite recent spikes in Covid cases, both in Denmark and here in the U.S., I hope that you and your loved ones are staying healthy and I wish all of you a wonderful holiday season. With the holidays awaiting just around the corner it is time to wrap up the year, slow down a bit, and unwind before the next. I believe we all need this a little extra this year. I look much forward to next year and to be able to meet you all in person again soon.

Yours sincerely,
Lone Dencker Wisborg
Ambassador of Denmark to the U.S.