On October 13, to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Denmark, the "Riding for a Greener Guangzhou" cycling event was held on Changzhou Island in Guangzhou, bringing together nearly 100 participants. The event promoted sustainable urban mobility and people-to-people exchanges against the backdrop of deepening bilateral ties.
Danish Ambassador to China, Michael Starbæk Christensen, highlighted the significance of cycling in Danish culture. "Copenhagen has been declared the most bike-friendly city several times and has more bikes than people. In fact, half of all trips to work or to school in Copenhagen are by bike," he noted. "While this year marks a special 75th anniversary, our relations go back much further, with South China always playing a key part in this story."
The event was co-organized by the Danish Consulate General in Guangzhou, the Guangdong People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, and the Guangzhou People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries.
Chen Guangjun, Vice President of the Guangdong People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, emphasized that "Changzhou Island is not only an ecological gem but also a living testament to the long-standing trade and cultural exchanges between Denmark and South China." He also connected the event to the upcoming 15th National Games, noting it aligns with the Games' commitment to green development.
Danish Consul General in Guangzhou, Søren Bindesbøll, an avid cyclist himself, shared his firsthand experience: "I bike to work and take my kids to school by bike every day. The terrain here is flat, the bike lanes are growing, and I see more people choosing bikes." He passionately advocated for urban cycling: "Drop your car, use the bike - it's faster, more efficient, healthier, and better for the climate. I pass all the cars stuck in traffic every morning."
Bindesbøll also connected the event to the upcoming National Games of China: "I hope this helps link elite sports with everyday activities like cycling, showing that sports are for everyone." When asked about his attendance, he confirmed: "I'm looking forward to the opening ceremony and particularly to watching badminton - a sport where both Chinese and Danish players excel."
The event also attracted international participants like Josephine from Finland, who shared: "I'm surprised by how much biking there is here. There are rental bikes everywhere - I use them too, and I'm happy I can bike here like I do at home."
Reporter: Guo Zedong
Photo: Guangdong People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries
Editor: Yuan Zixiang, James Campion, Shen He
