Today, the Minister for Business and Growth, the Minister for the Environment and the Minister for Science, Innovation and Higher Education have held a dialogue meeting on the Blue Denmark.

At the same time, the ministers appoint a growth team for the Blue Denmark. This marks the start of the Government’s work creating growth and employment in the Blue Denmark.

At the dialogue meeting, a wide number of representatives from the Blue Denmark were present, including employee and employer organisations, maritime companies at sea and ashore and research institutions.

Minister for Business and Growth Ole Sohn:

“Maritime companies account for 24 per cent of total Danish exports, and on the international market Danish shipowners transport about 10 per cent of world trade measured by value. Thus, we hold a clear global position of strength which we must build upon to get Denmark back on the growth track. We have got some good input today at the dialogue meeting as regards what it takes to make use of the growth potential of the Blue Denmark.

Now, the growth team will start working, and I look forward to seeing their recommendations. I am sure that this group of very competent persons with expert knowledge in the Blue Denmark can point at some very crucial focus areas for the Government to aim at and can focus on new possibilities of growth in the Blue Denmark.”

Minister for the Environment Ida Auken:

“The Blue Denmark also contributes to a green Denmark, and Danish shipowners and suppliers of marine equipment have a unique possibility of also doing big business on the basis of a strong green profile. I look forward to seeing the recommendations of the growth team and to developing the already fine co-operation that we have with the industry about greener shipping.”

Minister for Science, Innovation and Higher Education Morten Østergaard:

“In order to maintain and further develop the strength position of the maritime area, there is a need to focus on what competences and research efforts could make a difference in the Blue Denmark – both nationally and in relation to global competition. It is important to have a close dialogue and relationship between the companies of the Blue Denmark, the relevant knowledge institutions and the authorities. I look forward to seeing the fruits of the work that is being launched now.”

Now, the growth team of the Blue Denmark will start its work that will lead to them presenting, no later than on 1 October 2012, their recommendations to the government for initiatives that may strengthen the conditions of growth. As a follow-up on the work of the growth team, the government will draw up an action plan to strengthen the growth of the Blue Denmark.