Peking University, Beijing, Apr. 13, 2010: On the morning of April 12, the visiting Danish Prime Minister Lars Loekke Rasmussen made a speech titled “Greening Together – Sino-Danish Cooperation on the Road towards a Green Economy” in the Sunshine Hall of the Yingjie Exchange Center, Peking University. By touching on topics associated with environmental protection, the financial crisis, Chinese-Danish cooperation, etc, the Prime Minister exchanged thoughts with students especially stressing the importance of international cooperation on fighting global warming. 

PKU President Zhou Qifeng With Danish Prime Minister Lars Loekke Rasmussen

Prof. Zhou Qifeng, President of PKU, extended his welcome to the Prime Minister in his opening speech, while he also presented PKU’s dedication to continuing research on climate change and the environment. This event was hosted by the PKU College of Urban and Environment Sciences (CUES) Prof. Zhou Liping.

During Prime Minister Rasmussen's speech, he emphasized that to achieve a green economy, three important factors are needed: innovation, education and research. PKU has set a superb example on how higher education is a key stage in reaching this goal, where ever since the 1970s, CUES has resulted in numerous research achievements in this field.

"Denmark may be a small country but when it comes to energy efficiency and clean-tech, we offer valuable experience and technologies. And within the EU, Denmark is among the leading exporters in this field. Our industries are highly specialized and we are constantly looking to take advantage of new opportunities. China is one of our key markets and Chinese companies are some of our most important partners," the Prime Minister said during his speech.

During the closing of the ceremony, President Zhou Qifeng and Prime Minister Rasmussen exchanged gifts.

Background information:

Lars Loekke Rasmussen, born on May 15, 1964, is the current prime minister and Liberal Party of Demark leader. He was appointed the position of prime minister on April 5, 2009.

Having graduated from University of Copenhagen with a law degree, Rasmussen once assumed the positions the Interior and Health Minister and the Minister of Finance before he became Prime Minister. He has been a member of the Danish parliament (Folketinget) since September 21, 1994. He also served as County Mayor of Frederiksborg County from 1998 to 2001.

Translated by: An Jiang

Edited by: Jennifer Yan

Source: PKU News (Chinese)