Greenland’s PM: Island’s future decisions rest with residents

Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has responded to recent remarks by US President Donald Trump regarding the “importance” of Greenland to the United States, stressing that decisions about the island’s future are made solely by its residents.

“This morning I am both saddened and grateful,” Nielsen said on Facebook. 

“Saddened, because during a press conference overnight, the President of the United States once again expressed a desire to take over Greenland. With such words, our country is reduced to a question of security and power. That is not how we see ourselves, and that is not how Greenland can or should be spoken about.”

Highlighting Greenland’s long history and democratic institutions, Nielsen underlined the island’s right to self-determination.

“We are a people with a long history, a strong culture and a vibrant democracy. We are a country that takes responsibility for its own territory and for its own future. Our territorial integrity and our right to self-determination are firmly anchored in international law and cannot simply be ignored.”

The Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to Greenlanders for their response to the remarks. “Thank you to everyone at home for the clear support and solidarity that have been shown. The calmness and dignity with which you have met this situation send a strong signal of a people who stand firm in their values and in their responsibility.”

Nielsen extended thanks to international partners who have recognised Greenland’s sovereignty. “I would also like to thank government leaders and partners around the world who have clearly and unequivocally expressed their respect for Greenland, for our democratic institutions, and for the fundamental principles of international law, including our right to self-determination. That support confirms that we here at home do not stand alone.”

Concluding his statement, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Greenland’s autonomy. “Once again: Greenland is our country. Decisions are made here. And at all times I am prepared to fight for our freedom and for our right to decide for ourselves and shape our own future."

US President Donald Trump has highlighted Greenland’s strategic significance for the United States, citing national security as the primary concern.

Speaking to journalists at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump insisted that Washington’s interest in the territory is not motivated by its natural resources.

“Look at Greenland – up and down the coast, Russian and Chinese vessels are present. We need it for national security,” he said.

On December 22, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed gratitude to Trump for appointing a special envoy to Greenland and noted that the US is exploring the possibility of acquiring the island.

By Aghakazim Guliyev