Ole Toft: Denmark ready to develop cooperation with Azerbaijan in energy and transport - INTERVIEW

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Denmark to Azerbaijan, resident in Ankara, Ole Toft, spoke in an interview with Report's Türkiye bureau about the history of relations between the two countries, their current state, Azerbaijan's role in its region and other issues.

Even in 1918-1920, during the period of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR), Denmark's representation in Baku was located in the building of the Elektricheskaya Sila company at 32 Birzhevaya Street, now Uzeyir Hajibeyov Street (downtown Baku). After Azerbaijan restored its independence, diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in April 1992. How do you assess these relations? Which regional and international issues are priorities in Azerbaijan-Denmark relations?

Relations between Azerbaijan and Denmark indeed have deep historical roots. As you noted, Denmark maintained a representation in Baku even during the period of the ADR. This reflected recognition of Azerbaijan's role at that time as an important trade and energy center, as well as recognition of its strategic importance in the region.

First of all, we are two European countries located at opposite ends of the continent: Denmark in the northwest and Azerbaijan in the southeast. Therefore, we have common interests in ensuring peace and stability in Europe. That is why we attach great importance to maintaining a continuous dialogue on these issues.

This has become especially relevant since the start of the war in Ukraine. For the first time since World War II, Europe has faced an armed conflict of such scale. The current situation once again shows the need to work together for peace and stability on our continent.

Denmark and Azerbaijan are also interested in developing economic and trade relations. The positive developments of recent years in the South Caucasus, the advancement of the peace agenda, as well as opportunities to create new transport and energy corridors through Azerbaijan, contribute to strengthening this cooperation.

Today, Azerbaijan can be described as one of the key regional hubs. The country is becoming an important center both in road and transport infrastructure and in energy.

There is a political dialogue between our two countries based on shared interests in ensuring peace and stability in Europe. At the same time, economic and trade cooperation is developing rapidly. Danish companies are showing interest in developments in Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus, especially in the opportunities offered by the Middle Corridor and the development of Azerbaijan's energy sector - both the oil and gas industry and renewable energy. In the field of renewable energy, Denmark has major companies, some of which are already operating in Azerbaijan.

You recently visited Azerbaijan together with an official delegation from Denmark. What issues were discussed during the visit?

Yes, I took part in the presentation of a new product by a Danish pharmaceutical company in Baku. I also met with Azerbaijan's Minister of Economy, Mikayil Jabbarov, together with the Danish delegation. We maintain regular contact with representatives of the ministry.

This was my third visit to Azerbaijan this year, which means I visit roughly once every two months. This also reflects the growing cooperation between our countries. I held meetings at Azerbaijan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as with Elchin Amirbayov, Representative of the President of Azerbaijan on Special Assignments. Our contacts with the Azerbaijani side are regular. In addition, we have very good cooperation with Azerbaijan's embassy to Denmark, resident in Stockholm.

What importance did President Ilham Aliyev's participation in the reception hosted on behalf of the King and Queen of Denmark in Copenhagen on October 1, 2025, have for the development of relations between Azerbaijan and Denmark?

Meetings of this kind are of great importance. The visit of the President of Azerbaijan to Denmark last year and his participation in the European Political Community Summit was a great honor for us.

Azerbaijan will also host this summit in spring 2028. Denmark will take part in the event. The Prime Minister of Denmark visited Azerbaijan in connection with COP29 in November 2024. Therefore, high-level meetings are extremely important.

How do you assess Azerbaijan's role in hosting major international events?

Azerbaijan, and Baku in particular, are recognized as an excellent venue for international events. I believe COP29 was held successfully. Last year, I also took part in the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC) of the International Telecommunication Union in Baku, which was a very large-scale event. In addition, Baku recently hosted the World Urban Forum, which was also quite large-scale. Overall, Azerbaijan always organizes such events and meetings very professionally.

Which sectors of Azerbaijan's economy are most attractive to Danish investors?

As I have already said, we are very interested in the opportunities related to the Middle Corridor, the creation of new transport routes and energy links in the region. Some of the world's largest companies in transport and logistics are Danish. In addition, we have major companies in the renewable energy sector.

Therefore, we are showing great interest both in the development of transport infrastructure in Azerbaijan and the region, and in expanding the potential of renewable energy, including offshore wind energy in the Caspian Sea.

What is the current level of trade between Azerbaijan and Denmark? Which goods hold leading positions in exports and imports?

Trade covers a wide range of goods in both directions. There is no specific product that dominates. Denmark mainly exports pharmaceutical products to Azerbaijan, while we import agricultural goods from Azerbaijan to Denmark.

How do you assess the development of tourism ties between two countries?

I believe there is significant potential for growth in both directions. The South Caucasus, including Azerbaijan, as well as Central Asia, are becoming increasingly popular destinations for Danish tourists. Last year, my youngest son visited Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. I think tourism in this region is developing actively.

In addition, sport is very strongly developed in Azerbaijan. Your athletes regularly achieve good results at the Olympic Games. Last year, I attended a Champions League match in Baku between Danish champion FC Copenhagen and Azerbaijani champion Qarabag. Qarabag won. Although our team lost, it was a very pleasant evening and an excellent match.

You said you have visited Baku several times. Have you bought any souvenirs as a keepsake?

I bought a small carpet, as I am very interested in Azerbaijan's carpet-weaving culture. I visited the Carpet Museum in Baku, and it is magnificent. Azerbaijani carpets are special and unique; they differ noticeably from most carpets one can see in Denmark, which are mainly Persian. Azerbaijani carpets have their own distinctive style and very high quality.

In addition, I grew up near an oil refinery, as my father worked there as a manager. Therefore, I have always been interested in the history of the oil industry. For this reason, trips to Baku are particularly interesting for me, as I was able to learn more about the development of Azerbaijan's oil industry in the late 19th century.

Thank you for the interview.