Denmark moves to boost Greenland and Faroe Islands' autonomy
The Danish Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, has announced measures to enhance Greenland's and the Faroe Islands' autonomy in foreign policy. She held discussions with the authorities of these territories, which are under Copenhagen's jurisdiction. Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested that the USA should take over Greenland.
Frederiksen stated that Denmark is working on increasing the autonomy of Greenland and the Faroe Islands in foreign policy. She shared this information after meetings with the authorities of these territories, which are dependent on Copenhagen.
During the meeting in Copenhagen, attended by the Premiers of Greenland and the Faroe Islands, Mute Egede and Aksel V. Johannesen, Frederiksen emphasised that the aim is "an even more equal cooperation" between Denmark and its autonomous territories.
The Premier of Greenland, Mute Egede, expressed the need for greater independence in international negotiations.
Greenlanders don't want to be either Danes or Americans
"We wish to have our own voice," Egede stated. He also commented on Donald Trump's remarks suggesting that the USA should take control of Greenland.
We don’t want to be Danes. We don’t want to be Americans. We want to be Greenlanders - stressed Egede, adding that the desire for Greenland's independence is not new.
Changes in foreign policy
Frederiksen maintained her stance that the decision about Greenland's independence belongs to its residents. Until now, Denmark has been responsible for the foreign policy and security of Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
The first step towards change is the Copenhagen government's consent for the Faroe Islands' membership in the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The Faroese are eager to develop foreign trade, especially concerning fishing.
Greenland and the Faroe Islands also aspire to have more influence in the activities of the Arctic Council and the Nordic Council, where Denmark is a member.
American interest in Greenland
Donald Trump has repeatedly emphasised that the United States needs Greenland for national security reasons. He indicated that he does not rule out the use of force to achieve this goal.
Keith Kellogg, the prospective US special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, reminded us that the issue of Greenland's acquisition by the USA is not new.
Many people forget that President Andrew Johnson tried to buy Greenland, and President Harry Truman offered 100 million dollars for the island, said Kellogg.
Greenland attracts attention due to its mineral resources, which, in light of climate change and warming, may have global political implications. According to observers, threats to seize the island may endanger Euro-Atlantic stability.
