The Danish EU Presidency Has Clearly Set the Right Priorities. Concrete Results Will Be Crucial
The Danish government today presented its programme for the Danish EU presidency, which begins on 1 July. The government is placing particular focus on security, the green transition, and competitiveness – all priorities that resonate strongly with Danish Shipping.
From 1 July until the end of the year, Denmark will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union under the theme: “A strong Europe in a changing world.”
“It is wise of the government to focus on security, the EU's competitiveness, and the implementation of the green transition. We need concrete climate action to meet the ambitious targets – not least a massive expansion of renewable energy, which will, among other things, be used to produce green fuels for shipping,” said Anne H. Steffensen, CEO of Danish Shipping.
The Danish EU presidency has got off to a strong start with well-chosen priorities. That bodes well
It was Minister for European Affairs Marie Bjerre who presented the presidency programme at a press conference today. In a press release, she stated:
“Denmark is taking over the EU presidency in a new geopolitical reality, with changing political winds from the US and an increasingly aggressive Russia. The government’s priorities for the EU presidency have been carefully selected to respond to the urgent challenges facing Europe.
Europe must be able to defend itself by 2030, and boosting Europe’s competitiveness is equally pressing. That’s why strengthening Europe’s defence and cutting burdensome regulations – while maintaining the green transition – will be two of the Danish EU presidency’s most important priorities.” (Our translation, ed.)”
The official opening of the Danish presidency will take place in Aarhus on 3 July, where the Danish government will host the entire European Commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen. The visit will include a trip to the Port of Aarhus to discuss the green transition of shipping – a top priority for Danish Shipping. It marks a very promising start to the presidency from a maritime perspective.
“The Danish EU presidency has got off to a strong start with well-chosen priorities. That bodes well. Ultimately, it is the concrete results that count – and Denmark is well-placed to deliver. I am confident that by 1 January 2026, we will be able to look back on a successful and productive Danish presidency that has helped push the EU in the right direction on these vital agendas,”
said Anne H. Steffensen.