EU Commission chief Von der Leyen visits Greenland to sign new partnership deal
The EU plans to deepen its cooperation with Greenland despite US President Donald Trump’s claims of control over the Arctic island, as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived on Sunday for a two-day visit. Von der Leyen travelled to the resource-rich island, where a new EU-Greenland declaration is to be signed on Monday. Investment pledges running into the hundreds of millions…
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen embarked on a two-day visit to Greenland on Sunday, marking her intention to strengthen cooperation between the European Union and the Arctic island nation. Despite claims from US President Donald Trump regarding sovereignty over Greenland, the EU remains committed to deepening ties with the resource-rich territory.
Von der Leyen's visit culminates with the signing of a new EU-Greenland declaration on Monday, accompanied by substantial investment pledges. Upon her arrival, von der Leyen emphasized the unique nature of the partnership, stating, "We are family." She was greeted by Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen at Nuuk airport.
Nielsen expressed the close friendship and robust partnership between the two countries, vowing to build upon this foundation. The duo proceeded to an Arctic boat trip, marking the commencement of their itinerary. This visit assumes significance due to the ongoing US assertions over Greenland's strategic importance, particularly in terms of security.
Trump contends that Denmark lacks the capability to safeguard Greenland from potential threats posed by Russia and China. Additionally, Greenland's vast reserves of critical raw materials add to its appeal. The US President reiterated his claims in July, linking them to a review of US troop deployments in Europe, hinting at potential reductions if a satisfactory agreement on Greenland's future cannot be reached.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
