Denmark reopens embassy in KL ahead of Malaysia’s chairmanship of Asean to deepen trade ties

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 — The reopening of the Danish Embassy in Malaysia marks a pivotal milestone in the bilateral relations between the two nations, especially as Malaysia gears up to chair ASEAN in 2025, said Denmark’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lars Løkke Rasmussen.

Speaking to reporters at a reception hosted by the Danish Ambassador to Malaysia, Kirstine Vangkilde Berner, Rasmussen highlighted the growing importance of ASEAN as a bloc for Europe and the global role Malaysia continues to play.

According to him, Malaysia is a “major exporter of semiconductors and raw materials to Europe”, and therefore “Denmark needs trusted partners worldwide.”

He noted the longstanding ties between Denmark and Malaysia, which date back to Malaysia’s independence.

“We have enjoyed strong relations for decades. Malaysia is an attractive country for investment and deepening relations.”

Rasmussen expressed his hope that “we can reopen free trade negotiations with Malaysia, as there is tremendous potential.”

The minister emphasised Denmark’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with ASEAN under Malaysia’s leadership next year, leveraging Denmark’s roles as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and an active member of the European Union.