Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede reiterated the commitment of the island to self-determination Thursday when he asserted that Greenlanders treasure their identity in self-autonomy. Speaking to Fox News, Egede said, “The people in Greenland want not to be Danes. The people in Greenland want not to be Americans.
His remarks come as the world remains interested in Greenland’s strategic and resource-rich potential, especially from President-elect Donald Trump, who once expressed interest in buying the island. Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also defended Egede’s views, reminding the public that “Greenland is not for sale” after a phone call with Trump earlier this week.
A Vision for Independence and Partnerships
Egede highlighted Greenland’s aspirations for independence, noting that any decision on the island’s future should rest solely with its people. “The future of Greenland will be decided by the Greenlandic people,” he said. While pursuing self-governance, Greenland remains committed to maintaining strong partnerships with the U.S., the EU, and NATO.
Egede supported increased American and European investments, especially in Greenland’s expanding mining industry. This is in line with a recent opinion piece by Naaja H. Nathanielsen, Greenland’s natural resources minister, who called for sustainable and mutually beneficial collaborations with Western allies.
Commitment to NATO and Western Security
The world’s largest island, Greenland is strategically positioned in the Arctic region. Egede clarified that even in case of independence, Greenland would be a rock-solid member of NATO and maintain security cooperation with the U.S. and EU as its priority. “Your security is our security,” he stated, referring to the unity of the Western alliance.
Maintaining Identity and Autonomy
Egede’s statements mirror Greenland’s desire to hold onto its cultural identity while being open to economic benefits through global cooperation. The island’s leaders continue to walk this tightrope as they pursue self-determination, making sure that any partnership with other countries respects Greenland’s sovereignty and long-term interests.