A commemorative walk at Fort Canning Park marks six decades of diplomatic relations, highlighting shared commitments to health, sustainability, and long-standing green connections.
SINGAPORE, 22 December 2025 – Denmark and Singapore marked the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relations with A Walk in the Park, held at Fort Canning Park. Hosted by the Embassy of Denmark in Singapore, the event brought together more than 150 participants for a symbolic walk celebrating bilateral friendship, public health, and environmental sustainability.
The occasion was graced by Guest of Honour Mr Ong Ye Kung, Singapore’s Minister for Health and Coordinating Minister for Social Policies. His attendance underscored the event’s central message: that accessible, everyday habits such as walking play an important role in supporting both physical and mental well-being.
The choice of Fort Canning Park carried significant historical relevance. The green partnership between Denmark and Singapore dates back over two centuries to 1822, when Danish botanist and surgeon Nathaniel Wallich established Singapore’s first botanic garden on the same grounds. This legacy continues to shape both countries’ shared priorities in sustainability, nature conservation, and urban liveability.
Speaking at the event, Denmark’s Ambassador to Singapore, Jakob Brix Tange, emphasised the importance of the anniversary and the symbolism behind the walk. He highlighted how simple daily actions, such as walking outdoors, can meaningfully improve individual health and strengthen community bonds. “With this event, we celebrate not only six decades of diplomatic relations, but also our shared commitment to sustainability and healthy living,” said Ambassador Tange. “Small, everyday actions – like walking outdoors – can have a big impact on our health and our wellbeing. Today, we quite literally took a step together toward a greener, healthier future. It is a simple, joyful way to connect with nature and each other.”
Anand Shetty, Corporate Vice President for South East Asia at Novo Nordisk, echoed the importance of preventive health. “The increasing burden of chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity poses a serious threat to public health and healthcare systems globally. We are here to partner with authorities and medical communities across the region in preventive health measures through initiatives such as Cities for Better Health, a pioneering urban health partnership now active in more than 50 cities worldwide, and with UNICEF to prevent childhood obesity. Singapore is already a trailblazer in preventive health with national initiatives such as Healthier SG. We look forward to working closely together to address the root causes of serious chronic diseases, reduce the global health burden, and foster a healthier future as envisioned by this Walk in the Park event.”
Today, more than 400 Danish companies operate in Singapore, contributing to advancements in renewable energy, sustainability, and healthcare. The strong cooperation between the two nations reflects their natural alignment as small, open economies committed to green development and innovation.
Organised by the Embassy of Denmark in Singapore with the support of Novo Nordisk, the event celebrated not only a milestone in diplomatic ties but also a shared vision for a healthier and more sustainable future. Novo Nordisk, headquartered in Denmark and active in Singapore since 1997, continues to play a significant role in chronic disease prevention and management through partnerships with healthcare professionals, patient groups, and broader ecosystem stakeholders.
Source: Royal Danish Embassy Singapore
