Greenland’s Prime Minister Addresses European Parliament
Greenland’s Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, made history by addressing the European Parliament for the first time. During his speech, he emphasized that Greenland is not seeking to join the European Union or become part of the United States.
Nielsen was asked about the possibility of Greenland joining the EU or being annexed by the US, a topic that had been raised by former US President Donald Trump. He clearly stated, “Let me say this clearly, we are not going to join another country.” He further clarified that Greenland has no plans to become a member of the European Union but is committed to strengthening its existing partnership with the EU.
The territory is currently working on building stronger ties in areas such as education, minerals, and industry. “So no, we are not seeking to be a member of the European Union and we are definitely not seeking to be a part of another country,” he said.
What Greenland Wants
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, home to around 56,000 residents. It has had a self-government arrangement since 2009, following a long tradition of home rule that began in 1979.
In 1985, Greenland left the European Economic Community, the precursor to the EU, after a referendum in 1982. Since then, it has maintained close cooperation with the EU, and recent years have seen strengthened relations, including the opening of an EU office in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland.
Prime Minister Nielsen is focused on enhancing cooperation in various fields, particularly education, critical minerals, renewable energy, digitalization, and sustainable tourism. 
During his address, Nielsen highlighted the importance of raw materials, noting that Greenland possesses 24 out of the 34 critical minerals identified by the EU. In 2023, the EU and Greenland agreed on a strategic partnership on sustainable raw material value chains. Nielsen stressed the need for faster action due to global security concerns and the green transition.
Fisheries also play a significant role in Greenland’s economy. The territory has had a system in place since 1985 that allows EU vessels to fish in Greenlandic waters in exchange for financial contributions and duty-free access to the EU market for Greenlandic fishery products.
What Greenland Does Not Want
Despite the strong relationship, there are contentious issues in EU-Greenland relations. Nielsen expressed hope that the EU would reconsider a general ban on seal products in its market, which he believes has negatively impacted seal hunting and reduced domestic supply and exports.
Seal hunting is deeply rooted in Inuit culture, with knowledge passed down through generations. Nielsen described it as “the lifeblood of our culture and our identity.”
Nielsen’s final message to the European Parliament was clear: “Greenland needs the European Union and the European Union needs Greenland.” This statement seemed directed at Washington, especially after Trump’s controversial remarks about the possibility of using military force or economic coercion to seize Greenland.
Strong Support from the European Parliament
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola echoed Nielsen’s sentiments, stating that Greenland will always find a strong partner in the EU. She emphasized that the EU comes to Greenland with mutual respect and friendship, not demands or claims.
Metsola highlighted European investments in education, training, and skills in Greenland, promising continued support. “When you look to Europe, you will find friends and you will find allies,” she concluded.
