Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, is embarking on a significant journey to Greenland, reflecting the escalating significance of the region due to factors like melting Arctic ice, the demand for green-technology raw materials, and growing competition from China. Despite not being a part of the EU, Greenland holds substantial interest for Brussels, particularly for its abundance of raw materials, believed to encompass 25 out of the 34 materials deemed essential by the EU.
Von der Leyen’s visit, alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, entails stops in the Faroe Islands before heading to Greenland to inaugurate a new EU Commission office in Nuuk. This diplomatic excursion aligns with Von der Leyen’s reelection aspirations and follows calls for accelerated green efforts within the EU after recent elections, as highlighted by the EU’s climate chief, Wopke Hoekstra.
Tomas Baert, Von der Leyen’s special adviser on trade and international partnerships, emphasized Greenland’s significance in providing critical raw materials essential for the EU’s green transition. He underscored the need for partnerships to harness Greenland’s vast potential, acknowledging the geopolitical implications of China’s extraction-focused approach in contrast to the EU’s collaborative model.
The establishment of the EU Commission office in Greenland underscores the EU’s commitment to bilateral cooperation, as articulated by Naaja H Nathanielsen, Greenland’s minister for business, trade, and raw materials. Nathanielsen highlighted the mutual benefits of cooperation, emphasizing Greenland’s need for external support to develop its mineral sector, crucial for economic diversification alongside traditional sectors like fishing.
Amidst this geopolitical backdrop, the visit also coincides with critical developments in Denmark’s relationship with Greenland, amidst a growing independence movement and concerns over historical violations, including the forced sterilization of women and girls. While addressing these sensitive issues remains unresolved, the trip underscores the complex dynamics shaping the region’s future.
