China and Denmark have renewed an agreement to strengthen cooperation in green maritime technology and shipbuilding, reaffirming a long-term partnership despite rising geopolitical tensions in the Arctic region.
China’s Ministry of Industry said the renewed pact focuses on advancing low- and zero-carbon fuel-powered ship technologies and exploring collaboration in the new energy vehicle sector. Chinese Industry Minister Li Lecheng conveyed Beijing’s willingness to pursue joint research and development with Denmark during talks with Danish Minister for Business and Industry Morten Bodskov in Beijing. Li also emphasized China’s intent to deepen “strategic alignment” with Denmark and contribute to global green development.
The agreement comes at a time of strained relations between Denmark and the United States, following remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump expressing interest in controlling Greenland, Denmark’s semi-autonomous territory, citing Arctic security concerns that include China’s growing presence.
Adding to the Nordic engagement with Beijing, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo is on an official visit to China from January 25 to 28. Finland is a global leader in icebreaker ship design and production, a capability increasingly critical as Arctic trade routes open up. Orpo met Chinese President Xi Jinping and expressed interest in continued bilateral cooperation and dialogue on international issues.
The renewed commitments by Denmark and Finland contrast sharply with Washington’s narrative portraying China as a security threat in the Arctic. Beijing’s outreach to Nordic countries also highlights differing approaches to green industries, with Trump having previously dismissed the sector as a “Green New Scam.”