Dear Members of the American-Danish Business Council,

With 2021 coming to an end, I want to express my appreciation for your great commitment and cooperation throughout the year. 2021 has been another year with many challenges due to Covid, but while the pandemic continues to havoc among us, we have still managed to push through on important agendas and common interests in the transatlantic economic relationship.

2021 was also the year where we saw a new US Administration taking shape led by President Biden. With the pandemic at an all-time high, the new Administration had a major task in front of them, but they successfully managed to put forward an ambitious plan to reboot the country by rolling out large-scale vaccine programs and providing relief packages to revitalize the economy. As part of the new Administration’s ambitions, we saw a Unites States that firmly pledged reinvestment into the green agenda, and with broad commitment from government and industry, the green transition in the US seems unstoppable as it is picking up even further pace each day. This naturally provides great opportunities for our nations’ companies and the ADBC will continue to support wherever we can.

Back in May, another significant event occurred when Denmark had the pleasure of welcoming Secretary Antony J. Blinken for a visit to the Kingdom of Denmark. During his visit, it was reaffirmed that the US and Denmark remains very close allies with mutual appreciation of our efforts on many key issues with regards to climate change, global trade, and security policy. We will continue to build bridges and develop additional avenues for collaborating and exchanging ideas.

In the ADBC, we were fortunate to be able to host our annual Constitution Day Celebration in June. With Denmark’s more than 800-year-old flag as backdrop, over 200 friends of Denmark attended this lovely evening, including members of the ADBC, a number of Congress members, congressional staffers, government officials, thought leaders, business executives and many more. In addition, just a few weeks ago I hosted the annual Christmas Party in my residence. We had over 350 guests attending and I believe it clearly speaks to the fact that the transatlantic relationship stands stronger than ever with many important issues to discuss. Thank you for everyone who attended.

Looking into 2022, we are preparing for a busy year. We expect multiple official visits from Denmark and we plan to utilize these occasions to create engagement opportunities for the members of the ADBC. If the Covid-situation allows, our ambition is to get back to fully in-person activities. The value of meeting in person cannot be overestimated and while the virtual space has its clear benefits, diplomacy is most certainly a contact sport, as my British colleague humorously puts it.

I want to round up by wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season, and I look much forward to meeting you all again next year.

Yours Sincerely,
Lone Dencker Wisborg