WORLD NEWS
France is set to open a consulate in Greenland on February 6, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced on Wednesday, framing the move as a “political signal” in support of the semiautonomous Danish territory.
Speaking to RTL, Barrot said the consulate reflects Greenland’s desire to remain part of Denmark, NATO, and the European Union, rather than falling under the influence of the United States. “Greenland does not want to be owned, governed … or integrated into the United States. Greenland has made the choice of Denmark, NATO, [European] Union,” he stated.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions over repeated remarks by former US President Donald Trump, who has claimed Greenland should be brought under US control, citing its strategic Arctic location and natural resources, including oil, gas, and rare earth minerals. Trump has argued that Denmark has neglected the territory’s security and that Greenland is vital due to threats from Russia and China.
Denmark has vowed to strengthen its military presence in Greenland, with Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen noting increased NATO exercises and Arctic security operations. Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reiterated the territory’s commitment to remain with Denmark. “If we have to choose between the United States and Denmark here and now, we choose Denmark,” he said.
The consulate plan was finalized following President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Greenland last summer, which underscored France’s interest in Arctic affairs and scientific cooperation. Barrot added that the French presence will enhance diplomatic engagement as well as scientific research initiatives in the region.
This move signals growing European support for Greenland and adds another layer to ongoing geopolitical debates in the Arctic, where US, Russian, and Chinese interests are increasingly converging.
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