Danish PM: Greenland’s future should be determined by its people

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has reiterated that the future of Greenland must be determined by its people, following comments from US President-elect Donald Trump about potentially purchasing the Arctic island.

Speaking at a press conference on January 7, Frederiksen made it clear that Greenland "belongs to Greenlanders" and any discussions about its status must be led by the inhabitants of the island, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

"Any discussion about Greenland and its future must begin and end in Nuuk. Greenland is a people, a language, and a culture," Frederiksen emphasized, underscoring her stance that she would not engage in speculative discussions regarding the territory’s future. She further noted that if Greenland were to make a decision regarding its status, Denmark’s Parliament would consider any specific requests that arise.

Her remarks come after US President-elect Trump suggested that Greenland could benefit from becoming part of the United States, calling the acquisition an “absolute necessity.” Trump had made a similar proposition in 2019, sparking significant controversy in Denmark and Greenland.

Greenland's Prime Minister, Múte Egede, swiftly rejected Trump's offer, stating that Greenland is "not for sale and will never be for sale." Frederiksen echoed these sentiments, reaffirming that Greenlandic leaders are resolute in their opposition to any such proposal.

The Danish Prime Minister’s comments emphasize Denmark’s position on the issue, which affirms Greenland’s autonomy and the importance of respecting the island's sovereignty. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has repeatedly stated its determination to shape its future independently.

By Vafa Guliyeva