Credited from: SCMP
During his New Year’s Day speech, Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte Egede called for a stronger push towards independence from Denmark, optimistically marking a significant shift in the territory's political narrative. This declaration came in the backdrop of controversial remarks by former President Donald Trump, who proposed interest in purchasing the Arctic island. In his speech, Egede asserted, “The Greenlandic people's opportunity for independence has been adopted through the provisions of the Self-Government Act,” providing a legal basis for this aspiration.
Emphasizing self-determination, Egede stated, “Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale,” in response to Trump's comments about the necessity of US control over Greenland for national security objectives. He elaborated on the initiatives towards independence, indicating that a draft constitution is in progress, which is pivotal for shaping Greenland into an independent state.
The Prime Minister also discussed the opening of international airports, signifying a transformative step for the territory's infrastructure. “In the coming summer, it will now be possible to reach us directly from other countries, without first traveling via Denmark,” he explained, highlighting how this could foster increased autonomy and economic growth through tourism and trade.
Greenland currently operates as a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and stands at a crossroads influenced by its historical context and the ongoing global dynamics. As the push for independence gains momentum, the possibility of a referendum remains uncertain, but the commitment to self-determination is clear.
For further details, refer to the original articles from SCMP and The Hill.