A true friend of China's silicon sector

Helge Aasen leads Elkem AS' efforts to strengthen Chinese parent Bluestar

On Sept 29, Helge Aasen, 55, a Norwegian corporate executive, was among the recipients of the Chinese government's Friendship Award, the highest honor bestowed on foreigners who make outstanding contributions to China's economic and social development.

As CEO, Aasen oversaw Elkem AS' integration with China National Bluestar (Group) Co Ltd, the State-owned chemical giant that acquired the Norway-based silicon chemicals company in 2011.