When it comes to the EU and Nordic co-operation it is not a case of either/or but both/and because these two types of co-operation complement each other very well", says Manu Sareen, on taking up the position as new Danish Minister for Nordic Co-operation.
Manu Sareen takes over the position as Danish Minister for Nordic Co-operation from Karen Ellemann.
Manu Sareen took up the post as the new Danish Minister for Nordic Co-operation on 3 October as a member of a government which has the stated goal of placing higher priority on Nordic co-operation.
"The Nordic region is a pioneer; but we must become better at making use of what we have, for the benefit of ourselves and others. With a joint population of 25 million inhabitants, the Nordic countries should work on their strengths and act together in the contexts in which the future agenda is being set. This will give us better opportunities for influencing developments in both the EU and other parts of the world", says Sareen on taking up the position.
"The Nordic region's great wealth is its people, its knowledge and its creativity. This wealth is a strength that is the key to a democratic, just and peaceful development, competitiveness, employment and growth, to our welfare and our contribution to sustainable development", he continues.
The Nordic Council's annual summit, the Session, takes place in Copenhagen 1 - 3 November, with the participation of the Nordic prime ministers and foreign ministers, as well as the ministers of the environment, culture, and finance.
Manu Sareen is looking forward to co-operating with the Nordic Council and the other players in Nordic co-operation.
"The new government will place higher priority on Nordic Co-operation and I am excited to get started. Above all, I will be a minister who listens and aims for broad co-operation, and it is at the top of my list to make contact with the Nordic Council's newly elected Danish delegation as soon as possible and enquire about their views. I will also soon meet with the representatives from the Nordic organisations and representatives from the popular Nordic region", concludes the new Minister for Co-operation.
Jens Chr. Andersen Nordic Secretariat, The Danish Foreign Ministry jensan@um.dk