Berlin, Germany – In a significant diplomatic move reflecting growing international interest in the Arctic region, leaders of seven major European countries issued a joint statement affirming that Denmark and Greenland alone have the right to determine their own destiny and the future of their bilateral relations.
Non-negotiable sovereignty
A joint statement issued by the leaders of France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Poland, and Denmark declared that “Greenland belongs to its people.” The statement emphasized that any decisions concerning the island or its relationship with the Danish crown are the exclusive prerogative of both parties. The text, released by the Danish Prime Minister’s office, reads: “Denmark and Greenland, and only they, can decide on matters concerning them.”
Defense of the United Nations Charter
Although the statement did not directly mention the United States, observers interpreted it as a veiled message. This message emphasized “the importance of respecting international law.” The European leaders declared in their statement: “We will not cease to defend the principles of the UN Charter, which include sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inviolability of borders.”
The Arctic and NATO
The statement addressed the region’s security dimension, noting that the Arctic region represents a strategic priority for NATO. The leaders emphasized the following:
European allies intensify efforts to promote stability in the north.
The need to achieve security in the Arctic collectively and in coordination with NATO allies, including the United States.
Adherence to international principles that ensure the region remains free from illegal border disputes.
Background of the crisis
This statement comes at a time of increasing international competition for natural resources and shipping lanes in the Arctic. This has prompted European powers to act collectively to thwart any international ambitions aimed at altering Greenland’s legal or political status without the consent of its people and the Copenhagen government.
