The new Greenlandic Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, has criticised recent comments from the United States regarding the mineral-rich Arctic island, calling them disrespectful. Mr Nielsen firmly stated that Greenland “will never, ever be a piece of property that can be bought by just anyone”, during a press conference alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. His remarks were made in response to US President Donald Trump’s interest in acquiring the strategic territory. Greenland remains a semi-autonomous region within the Kingdom of Denmark.
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Speaking at the Prime Minister’s official residence at Marienborg, near Copenhagen, Mr Nielsen said, “The talks from the United States have not been respectful. The words used have not been respectful. That’s why, in this situation, we need to stand together.” Greenland’s political parties, which have long discussed independence, have recently agreed to form a broad coalition government to present a united front amid external interest in the territory. Mr Nielsen’s three-day visit to Denmark has been focused on fostering future cooperation between Greenland and Denmark.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasised Denmark’s continued commitment to Greenland, stating: “Denmark has the will to invest in Greenlandic society, and we do so not merely for historical reasons. We also invest because we are part of a shared commonwealth.” She reiterated Denmark’s intention to strengthen these bonds, highlighting the importance of mutual support within the Kingdom of Denmark.
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Mr Nielsen is scheduled to meet King Frederik X on Monday before travelling back to Greenland for a royal visit. When questioned about the possibility of meeting with President Trump, Ms Frederiksen responded: “We always wish to meet with the American president. Of course we do. But I believe we have been very, very clear regarding the commonwealth’s approach to every part of the Kingdom of Denmark.”
