For our second visit to diplomatic institutions in Copenhagen, our fellows spent the day at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Denmark and Asia House Denmark.

At the Dutch Embassy, we were welcomed by representatives from both the Netherlands and Sweden, who shared their experiences working across borders. The conversation covered various topics, from Denmark’s shifting position within the EU to trade relations and collaboration on green technology. We also explored how embassies adapt to global events, such as changes in U.S. development aid and the Arctic’s increasing geopolitical importance.

The fellows received an honest and informative perspective on what it means to represent a country abroad and the compromises, movement, and resilience that the job often demands.

In the afternoon, we made our way to Asia House, where the focus shifted to East and Southeast Asia—regions that are becoming central to the global conversation, yet often remain underexplored in European discussions. We learned about the significance of long-term partnerships, the cultural nuances of doing business in Asia, and the urgent need for stronger cooperation on climate and technology. Initiatives like the Nordic Asian Venture Alliance aim to bridge that gap, opening new pathways for investment and innovation between regions.

Beyond the official agenda, the day also provided an opportunity to step outside the classroom, share ideas, and bond even more with one another.