Ambassador H.E. Jakob Brix Tange reflects on Denmark-Singapore relations, his diplomatic journey, and future collaborations in an exclusive interview with IN Diplomacy Editor-in-Chief, Ms. Nomita Dhar.

Singapore, 11 February 2025 – In an exclusive interview with IN Diplomacy, Ambassador H.E. Jakob Brix Tange shared insights into his experiences in Singapore, his diplomatic career, and Denmark’s evolving relationship with Singapore. Celebrating 60 years of diplomatic ties, he highlighted the strong business, educational, and sustainability collaborations between the two nations. The discussion also touched upon Denmark’s leadership in green technologies, the significance of international diplomacy, and future partnership opportunities.

Ms. Nomita Dhar (ND): Ambassador, tell us your first impressions of Singapore.

Amb. Jakob Brix Tange (Amb): I first visited Singapore many years ago, and while it has evolved significantly since then, I remain deeply impressed. Singapore is an economic powerhouse, a hub of innovation, and an exceptionally well-organised society. I have also received a warm welcome, and I admire the competence and efficiency of the people, both professionally and personally.

ND: How did you get into diplomacy, and what has your journey been so far?

Amb: I initially applied to the foreign service but was unsuccessful. I pursued international relations and computer science, then worked at Accenture in London, focusing on financial and economic matters. When a new diplomatic opportunity arose, I reapplied and was accepted. Since then, I have served in various roles, including at the OECD, Danish Security and Intelligence Service, and diplomatic postings in Nicaragua, London, Paris, and Afghanistan. Diplomacy has always fascinated me, particularly its role in fostering peace and economic integration, a perspective shaped by my early experience as a stagiaire at the European Commission post-Berlin Wall.

ND: What has been your most memorable diplomatic experience?

Amb: One of the most striking moments of my career was leading the Danish part of the 2021 evacuation out of Kabul airport when the Taliban took over Afghanistan. Having served there in 2017-2018, witnessing the drastic change in the city was profoundly moving. The chaos that faced us at the airport served as a stark reminder of how fragile civilisation can be.

ND: Given your experience, do you think diplomacy remains crucial today?

Amb: More than ever. Despite differing global perspectives, international cooperation is essential for addressing issues like peace, security, economic stability, and climate change. Diplomacy fosters dialogue, enabling partnerships to navigate these complex challenges.

ND: How would you introduce Denmark to Singaporeans unfamiliar with your country?

Amb: Denmark and Singapore share similarities—we are both small, open economies reliant on international trade. Innovation and education are critical to our success. However, our climates differ significantly—I enjoy Singapore’s warm climate, but I also appreciate Denmark’s changing seasons. Singaporeans visiting Denmark would likely find it equally welcoming.

ND: What are the key areas of Denmark-Singapore cooperation?

Amb: There were two primary areas, which include Business relations, where Singapore is a regional hub for over 440 Danish companies, which we support in their operations across Southeast Asia, and Intellectual collaboration, where Singapore is a centre for think tanks and research, providing valuable insights into regional developments.

ND: This year marks 60 years of Denmark-Singapore diplomatic relations. What does this milestone mean?

Amb: Denmark was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic ties with Singapore in 1965. Over the years, our relationship has strengthened through economic partnerships, knowledge exchange, and diplomatic cooperation. Maintaining and deepening these ties remains crucial, particularly given Singapore’s limited diplomatic representation in Europe.

ND: Looking ahead, how should Denmark and Singapore collaborate over the next 60 years?

Amb: Sustainability will be at the forefront. Denmark is a leader in green shipping, renewable energy, and environmental solutions—areas that align with Singapore’s priorities. We can work together to advance the green transition, applying Danish expertise in clean energy and maritime sustainability while learning from Singapore’s efficiency-driven governance.

ND: Denmark is recognised for excellence in education, gender equality, and sustainability. How can we foster stronger collaboration?

Amb: Partnerships should span multiple levels—government-to-government, industry alliances, and academic exchanges. Encouraging student and professional exchanges can facilitate deeper engagement, ensuring our nations remain at the forefront of global innovation and sustainability.

ND: How do you think Danish culture can be showcased in Singapore?

Amb: We have several film festivals. We have a Nordic film festival. We have an EU film festival. I think Danish films have been gaining some international interest for several years now. We hope that that will continue. That’s one thing. I also think that it is part of the cultural exchange. We also have programs in Denmark that support cultural collaboration across Denmark and Singapore that are available for artists. I think we are working, and we are very interested in promoting cultural exchange between two countries.

As Singapore and Denmark embark on the next chapter of their diplomatic relations, the Ambassador envisions a future defined by innovation, sustainability, and strengthened ties.