The future economic and social development of Chongqing, anti-corruption and happy Danes were the main topics of conversation when Denmark’s ambassador met with Bo Xilai on 20 January.
As a part of his three day visit in Chongqing, Ambassador Friis Arne Petersen met with Party Secretary Bo Xilai on 20 January at the Foreign Affairs offices in Chongqing. During their meeting, Mr. Bo and Ambassador Petersen discussed the future of Chongqing, which is both bright, full of potential and challenging. Priorities in coming years include continued economic development in order to improve living conditions as well as infrastructure, development and the environment.
Just last year, Chongqing’s economy grew by 17% and prospects are that the city will only gain importance in the Chinese economy and the Chinese market. Recognizing the acclaimed high standard of Danish products, with leading companies in waste water treatment, clean energy, shipping and brewery, Mr. Bo encouraged Danish companies to consider establishing themselves in Chongqing and take part in the booming economy.
During the meeting Ambassador Petersen briefed on the many societal achievements Denmark has made in areas such as innovation, energy, environment and culture and. International surveys show that Danes are the happiest people in the world and also that Denmark is the least corrupt country in the world. Mr. Bo noted that while Danes are rich they are still hard working.
Upon concluding the visit with Mr. Bo Xilai, Ambassador Petersen was very positive about the future outlook for Danish business in Chongqing:
“My meeting with Mr. Bo and my visit during the last days to Chongqing has confirmed that there is a great match between Danish experiences and expertise and Chinese demand. Both the Danish Consulate in Chongqing and the Danish Embassy in Beijing will continue to attach great importance to the opportunities in Western China.”
The trip to Chongqing is the first out of many visits the Ambassador is going to make to different provinces in 2011. These visits aim at further improving ties with local leaders, have meetings and debates with scholars and students and promoting the match between Danish and Chinese business interests as well as paying visits to civil society organisations and projects.
