Danish envoy doesn't see Kim Davy issue hurdle to relations

Denmark doesn't foresee any hurdle in growing bilateral relations which saw a setback in the past over extradition of Kim Davy, the main accused in the 21-year-old Purulia arms drop case.

"I don't see extradition issue coming in the way of the growing bilateral relationship with India. Now, Danish companies are being encouraged to look into India as a major market," Danish Ambassador to India Peter Taksoe Jensen told PTI.

He said that India had made a request to Denmark last December seeking extradition of Kim Davy. Following this, "Danish companies were not sure to explore India right now but I have assured them it will not be a hurdle to exploit the immense opportunities here." Jensen said, Union Urban Development Minister Venkaiah Naidu may visit Denmark sometime in May-June though the schedule has not been finalised.

Denmark has shown interest in collaborating in smart cities, urban development, capacity building, renewable energy, maritime, agriculture, and transport, among others.

For smart cities, focus should be more on clean water and air, clean energy and transport than Internet connectivity, he said.

Denmark has been engaged in dialogue to work for Udaipur water distribution management.

Jensen said they are keen to associate with a national body like Indian Institute of Urban Development.

Meanwhile, Denmark wants to offer scholarship to Indian students to study in Denmark. To begin with, it will be offering the assistance to 20 students annually of Serampore College for higher studies in Denmark for which a scheme is underway. Serampore in Hooghly district used to be a a Danish colony in the 18th century.