“With so many heads of state and governments arriving to give their statements, it is appropriate that the Danish prime minister presides,” Hedegaard said in a brief press statement.

Speculation had risen that Hedegaard’s environmental views are too radical for the taste of some heads of state. Others believe she was not “senior enough” to hold such a title in the waning hours of the summit.

Hedegaard will serve as the prime minister’s “special representative” for the final negotiations, in spite of widespread rumours that the two do do not get along.