China’s energy minister in historic visit to Denmark

World’s most populous nation knows that Denmark’s green transition prowess is no fairy tale

The Chinese energy minister, Nur Bekri, was in Denmark over the weekend taking a first-hand look at the Danish energy system and its efforts at becoming more sustainable.

Nur Bekri, who is the first Chinese energy minister to ever visit Denmark, met with the energy and climate minister, Lars Christian Lilleholt, to garner information on the Danish approach to the green transition.

“That Nur Bekri decided to come to Denmark is a big pat on the back,” said Lilleholt.

“China is in a massive transition from coal and oil to green energy sources, but it’s a difficult movement that requires know-how and precise planning. And with decades of experience in the area, Denmark can play an important role.”   

READ MORE: New voyage of the friendship between China and Denmark

Opening doors
One of China’s more pressing problems at the moment is that almost 20 percent of its wind energy isn’t being integrated into the energy system due to a lack of flexibility.

Lilleholt and Bekri penned a Danish-Chinese co-operation agreement in early 2016 regarding the issue – which if solved could save China the equivalent of Denmark’s total annual CO2 emissions.

“China is the world’s biggest emitter of CO2 and the key to solving global climate change rests there,” said Lilleholt.

“So I look forward to showing Mr Bekri the Danish energy system and discussing how Danish experiences can benefit China.”

Conversely, Lilleholt also maintained that China remained a very interesting market for Danish energy companies and that a well-oiled relationship with the Chinese government could open many doors. In March, the Danish government presented an export strategy that aims to double energy tech exports to 140 billion kroner by 2030.




  • The international who shaped Copenhagen

    The international who shaped Copenhagen

    Anna Maria Indrio is one of the most important architects in Denmark, having contributed to shaping Copenhagen into what it is today. Among her best-known projects are the extension of SMK and Arken, as well as the Natural History Museum and the Darwin Centre in London. She moved here 60 years ago, when “Copenhagen was gray and dormant. Predictions suggested it would become depopulated. But putting people at the center changed everything,” she said

  • Danish government passes amendment to increase citizenship fee by 50%

    Danish government passes amendment to increase citizenship fee by 50%

    Fees were raised to reflect processing costs and curb repeat applications, creating debate over whether the new charges erect barriers to political participation for internationals.

  • Internationals’ labour contributes 361 billion DKK to Denmark’s GDP, and it is growing strongly every year

    Internationals’ labour contributes 361 billion DKK to Denmark’s GDP, and it is growing strongly every year

    According to a report by the Danish Chamber of Commerce, internationals’ contribution is 12% of the country’s GDP. In 2023, it was 322 billion DKK, and in 2008, it was 136 billion DKK. “Internationals make a gigantic difference in our prosperity and welfare,” comments Morten Langager, the Director of Dansk Erhverv.

  • Inside Denmark’s innovation engine

    Inside Denmark’s innovation engine

    With half of its staff being international, the BioInnovation Institute reflects Denmark’s broader transformation into a global innovation hub. But can the country—and Europe—keep up the pace? “If reforms are made now, we can close the gap in ten years,” explains BII’s CEO

  • Denmark launches massive investment in the navy

    Denmark launches massive investment in the navy

    Two months ago, the Danish PM announced that military equipment should be purchased in a hurry. The first plans for the sea are now ready. Additional plans for warships will follow this summer.

  • International designers struggle to find jobs in Denmark

    International designers struggle to find jobs in Denmark

    Many internationals come to Denmark to work as designers, but the field appears to be one of the hardest to break into. The Copenhagen Post spoke with two internationals struggling to find their way into the industry.

Connect Club is your gateway to a vibrant programme of events and an international community in Denmark.