Greenland’s Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, voiced his disapproval Sunday of comments made by U.S. officials regarding the Arctic island, deeming them disrespectful and reiterating that the island is not for sale. This statement challenges the U.S. President, who has repeatedly suggested purchasing the strategically important territory.
Speaking alongside Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen at a joint press conference held at Frederiksen’s official residence, Marienborg, in Lyngby, Denmark, Nielsen asserted that Greenland “will never, ever be a piece of property that can be bought by just anyone.”
The was meeting with Frederiksen during the second day of his three-day official visit to Denmark. Greenland is a semi-autonomous region within the Kingdom of Denmark.
“The communications from the United States have lacked respect,” Nielsen stated. “The language used has been disrespectful. That’s why we need to stand united in this situation.”
in Greenland recently decided to form a broad coalition government amidst Trump’s expressed interest in the territory.
This comes as the island has been moving towards greater independence from Denmark for several years.
Nielsen’s three-day visit aims to foster future collaboration between Greenland and Denmark.
“Denmark is committed to investing in Greenlandic society, and this commitment isn’t solely based on historical ties. It stems from our shared membership in the Danish Commonwealth,” Frederiksen explained.
“We are, of course, willing to continue investing in Greenlandic society,” she added.
Nielsen is scheduled to meet with Denmark’s King Frederik X on Monday before returning to Greenland with Frederik for an official royal visit to the island.
Frederiksen and Nielsen were questioned about the possibility of a meeting involving themselves and Trump.
“We are always open to meeting with the American president,” Frederiksen responded. “Of course, we are. But I believe we have been very, very clear about the [Danish commonwealth’s] position on all parts of the Kingdom of Denmark.”