30th Anniversary of the Embassy of Iceland in Beijing: Highlighting the Synergy Between Gender Equality and Renewable Energy
The Embassy of Iceland in China and Center for China and Globalization (CCG) hosted a well attended event today focusing on advancing gender equality and renewable energy, further highlighting cooperation between Iceland and China. The event, which celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Embassy in Beijing, brought together leaders, experts, and advocates to explore the vital role women play in the renewable energy sector and the shared commitment of both nations to sustainable development.
The event commenced with opening remarks from the Icelandic Ambassador Thorir Ibsen and Dr. Song Li, Member of the Secretariat of the All-China Women's Federation, setting the tone for meaningful discussions on the intersection of gender equality and green energy.
Keynote Addresses: Women Leadership in the Energy Sector
The keynote session featured powerful insights from leading figures in renewable energy and gender advocacy. Ambassador María Mjöll Jónsdóttir, Director General of the
Political Directorate of the Icelandic Ministry for Foreign Affairs, emphasized Iceland’s commitment to gender equality, highlighting the country’s leadership in empowering women in the workforce and political spheres. Ms. Xin Charlotte Xhao, CEO of Arctic Green Energy China, shared her perspective on the increasing role of women in China’s energy transition. Ms. Lotte Rosenberg, CEO of Carbon Recycling International, also presented the importance of fostering inclusive innovation in the renewable energy sector, underscoring the need for diverse leadership to drive sustainability.
Panel Discussions: Paving the Path for Inclusive Energy Solutions
The event continued with a dynamic panel discussion featuring prominent leaders in the fields of energy, development, and women’s empowerment. Dr. Mabel Lu Miao, co-founder and Secretary-General of the Center for China and Globalization, Ms. Beate Tranmann, UNDP Resident Representative, and Dr. Shenglong Quzhen, Director at China Women’s University, engaged in thought-provoking conversations on the challenges and opportunities women face in the renewable energy sector.
Dr. Xiaodong Wang, World Bank’s Lead Energy Specialist for China, Mongolia, and Korea, alongside Dr. Wang Kun from the Tianjin Bureau of Planning and Natural Resources, examined how energy innovation and gender inclusivity intersect in the context of global development. The panel was moderated by Chu Q Wang, Head of Partnership at UN Women, who ensured an engaging and collaborative discussion among the experts.
Building a More Inclusive and Sustainable Future
The event underscored the shared commitment of Iceland and China to achieving gender equality and advancing renewable energy and to furthering gender inclusivity and green energy innovation, advancing the global effort to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Embassy of Iceland extends heartfelt thanks to all those who attended and participated in the event, as well as the distinguished speakers who helped make this event a success. We look forward to continued collaboration with China in these critical areas.