Ankara: Greenland's prime minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, addressed the European Parliament in Strasbourg, marking a historic moment as the first Greenlandic leader to speak in the chamber. In his speech, Nielsen emphasized the importance of building stronger partnerships with countries and institutions that share Greenland's values, particularly highlighting the year 2025 as an "eventful, if not dramatic" year for the autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark.

According to Anadolu Agency, Nielsen spoke about Greenland's resilience and its longstanding tradition of cooperation, which has allowed its people to thrive in the Arctic's challenging conditions for thousands of years. He underscored that cooperation and mutual respect are central to Greenland's social and political framework, both domestically and internationally.

Nielsen stressed the need for partnerships based on fundamental values such as equality and respect. He highlighted Greenland's desire to collaborate with like-minded countries and institutions worldwide. He also addressed the interest expressed by US President Donald Trump in acquiring Greenland, which was firmly rejected by both Greenland and Denmark, with polls indicating opposition from most Greenlanders.

The premier praised the European Union as a "stable, reliable and important partner" for over four decades. He noted that their cooperation has expanded beyond fisheries to encompass education, raw materials, energy, biodiversity, research, and climate change. Nielsen expressed gratitude for the EU's support during Greenland's current challenges.

He pointed out that Greenland's emerging mineral sector could be crucial in securing the EU's supply of strategic and critical raw materials, mentioning that Greenland possesses 24 of the 34 minerals identified by the EU as critical. Additionally, Nielsen highlighted Greenland's vast untapped hydropower potential and the growing importance of connectivity in the global economy.

In conclusion, Nielsen emphasized the mutual need for cooperation between Greenland and the European Union, stating, "Greenland needs the European Union and the European Union needs Greenland."