Greenland urges EU investment for mineral resources and infrastructure

Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen delivered a significant speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on October 8, 2025, highlighting the longstanding partnership between Greenland and the European Union. He expressed gratitude towards the EU for being a dependable ally and emphasized the shared values that connect the EU and Greenland, noting that this alliance has endured for over 40 years. During his address, Nielsen characterized the year 2025 as particularly eventful for Greenland, referencing the challenges posed by climate change and geopolitical tensions with the United States. He notably did not mention U.S. President Donald Trump’s earlier interest in acquiring Greenland, instead focusing on what he described as the need for partnerships with like-minded nations. The Prime Minister pointed out the critical importance of EU investment in Greenland’s natural resources, especially the untapped mineral reserves and renewable energy potentials, which he argued were essential for the EU's green transition and energy sustainability. He specifically called for investment in mining operations, renewable energy projects, and improvements to telecommunications and airport infrastructure. This appeal was framed in the context of Greenland's need for economic development and the EU's interest in securing reliable mineral supplies to support its own environmental goals. Following the conclusion of his speech, Nielsen received a standing ovation from the lawmakers present. The discussions surrounding the future cooperation between Greenland and the EU highlight the evolving dynamics of international relationships, particularly concerning resource-rich regions amidst increasing climate concerns and the need for collaborative environmental strategies.