Minister Cho, your excellencies, distinguished guests,

It is a pleasure to see so many participating in this important seminar. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs [and Seoul Municipality - TBC] for their time and effort in the organization of this event. 

Today, our world is facing many challenges. Many of these challenges are common for both our countries and for the rest of the world for that matter. Poverty, climate change, and overexploitation of global resources. And even though these challenges may impact countries differently, whether we talk about pollution or fine dust, they are common challenges affecting us all. 
Around the World we are now faced with the challenge of promoting growth and prosperity while ensuring the protection of our planet. An immense challenge - and one that no single country can tackle alone. Fortunately - with challenge comes opportunity. 

The Sustainable Development Goals – the SDGs – were adopted in 2015 by all UN member states as a common framework for global development. 

The SDGs are not only a visionary global framework. They are a common language and our blueprint for sustainable development for people, planet and prosperity. And they are ambitious! As too, is the time frame - 17 goals to be reached in less than 15 years, and the clock is ticking. 

The ambition reflects the severity, complexity and the global nature of the challenges we face. Reaching the goals will require enormous investments, dedicated innovation and far reaching partnerships. 
And this is where opportunities arise. Creative partnerships, bold investments and innovation and new technologies open our eyes to a new world of opportunities. Circular economy, renewable energy, liveable and sustainable cities and clean water are all important contributions to achieving the SDGs. 

Denmark and Korea have worked closely together in the Green Growth Alliance. Through the alliance our governments and companies have fostered strong partnerships, innovation and joint investments. We have shared our experiences with Korea and learned from Korea. And we will do so again today. 

Many of the Danish companies present here today have developed successful businesses by integrating the SDGs into their business strategies. With us today are shipping companies, a brewery and of course energy and environmentally focused companies. Despite the variety of sectors and the variety of services and goods that they produce, they have decided to view the SDGs as a means to grow their business, and not as a threat. 
And this is how we should see the SDGs. As a framework for development and a framework for innovation. Creating business opportunities, new markets and jobs. Danish companies have recognised that the SDGs should form part of a company’s DNA. Only by fully incorporating them in their business operations and strategy, is it possible to combine profitability and contribute to solving the main challenges we are all facing. 

It goes without saying that even though the SDGs are good business, it is an Agenda for all. Reaching the goals will also require commitment and action by governments. And here, let me commend the Korean government for its ambitious 2030 plan of 20 % renewable energy by 2030. This is a good example of government-led action - ensuring broad implementation and monitoring progress.

The facilitation of innovation and new ideas is essential. And once again, the Korean government is leading the way by investing more than 5 % of GDP in research and development.

The SDG’s (Goal 17) recognise the importance that partnerships will play in being able to deliver on the promise of the 2030 Agenda. Untraditional, cross-sectorial partnerships, partnerships between the public and private sector, partnerships between companies, academia, NGO’s. Partnerships that deliver solutions. 

It takes courage to lead. Our two countries have courage. Our Green Growth Alliance has created a unique bond for fostering innovation and intelligent partnerships. And through this alliance, Denmark and Korea share a joint vision of a safe and sustainable future for generations to come

I hope today can lead to ideas, new partnerships and new initiatives that will secure the strong and further implementation of the SDGs and will benefit Korea, Denmark -our planet.

Kam-sa-ham-mi-da.
Thank you.