Rufus Gifford receives honorary award for his tireless work connecting Denmark and the US

Former American ambassador to Denmark Rufus Gifford is this year’s recipient of the prestigious Copenhagen Goodwill Ambassadors award, which will be presented on Monday evening.

The ceremony, taking place monday at Copenhagen City Hall, is a recognition of Rufus Gifford’s significant efforts in strengthening the Danish-American collaboration.

HRH Prince Joachim is present as the patron at the Copenhagen Goodwill Ambassador Corps’ gala dinner and the award presentation for the Copenhagen Goodwill Ambassadors prize.

Jens Kramer Mikkelsen, former Lord Mayor of Copenhagen and current chairman of Copenhagen Goodwill Ambassadors, praises this year’s recipient for being a true friend of Denmark in a time where disagreements are more apparent than ever.

-“Friends are always good to have, and Rufus Gifford has truly proven to be exactly that. In a moment where tensions can rise, this year’s recipient is a man tirelessly working to enhance the close ties that have always existed across the Atlantic. This is our acknowledgment of an effort based on mutual respect and, above all, a great love for Denmark.”

Rufus Gifford, USA’s ambassador to Denmark from 2013-2017, is the fourth recipient of the award, given to an individual or organization that does something exceptional to promote Copenhagen and Denmark abroad – while also having a regard for Danes residing beyond the country’s borders.

The fact that this year’s Copenhagen Goodwill Ambassadors prize winner holds Denmark close to his heart is evident, and Rufus Gifford is very grateful for the recognition.

-“I am very proud and honored to receive this award. There is no doubt that Denmark and Copenhagen hold a special place in my heart and have for many years. I have embraced the Danish way of life and culture and have made lifelong friends in this country. Therefore, it is only natural for me to always strive to create the best possible relations between two nations that mean so much to me.”

The award ceremony marks the highlight of the network’s annual meeting, where the Goodwill Ambassadors—a network of Danish business professionals in international leadership positions—gather to strengthen the relations between Copenhagen and the world.

Copenhagen’s Lord Mayor Lars Weiss, on behalf of the city, hosts the dinner at Copenhagen City Hall where Rufus Gifford is honored.

Previous winners include Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, DR journalist Stéphanie Surrugue, and Fair and Sensible founder Benjamin Schenkel.