In a significant address to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen expressed gratitude to the European Union for its enduring partnership and called for increased investment in the Arctic island’s mineral resources, renewable energy, and infrastructure. Nielsen, 34, described 2025 as a pivotal year for Greenland, emphasizing the challenges posed by climate change while avoiding mention of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial remarks about acquiring the territory. He highlighted the EU’s role as a “stable, reliable, and important partner” for over four decades, extending a heartfelt thanks for its support during challenging times. Greenland, once a Danish colony, became a self-governing entity in 2009 but remains part of the Danish realm. Nielsen underscored the island’s abundance of critical raw minerals sought by the EU, noting the capital-intensive nature of mining. He also urged investment in hydroelectricity, telecommunications, and the construction of two regional airports, emphasizing the need for trusted operators to ensure infrastructure stability. The speech concluded with a standing ovation from lawmakers as Nielsen thanked the EU for being a “trusted friend of Greenland.”
Greenland’s leader hails EU as trusted friend and urges investment in its minerals
