NUUK, Greenland — China's Foreign Ministry on Monday cautioned against the United States leveraging other countries as a justification to advance its interests in Greenland. The spokesperson declared that Beijing's actions in the Arctic conform to international law, countering concerns about growing US ambitions in the region.
At a routine briefing, a Foreign Ministry official responded to inquiries regarding the US's plans for Greenland—a self-governing territory under Danish sovereignty and a NATO member. US President Donald Trump has made public statements expressing a desire to obtain Greenland, motivated by concerns that Russia or China might otherwise assert control over this expansive Arctic island. The issue has intensified diplomatic friction this month between Washington, Copenhagen, and Nuuk as the Trump administration actively pursues various options, including military involvement, to acquire Greenland.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has issued strong warnings, indicating that an American acquisition of Greenland would signify the dissolution of NATO. Reflecting local political consensus, Greenland's Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen and the heads of the territory's four other parliamentary parties released a joint declaration on Friday. They stressed that any decisions about Greenland's future hinge on its inhabitants' will and underscored their desire for an end to perceived disregard by the United States towards their country.
President Trump reiterated his stance in statements made aboard Air Force One on Sunday, asserting that the US must secure Greenland to prevent dominance by Russia or China. While emphasizing his preference for a negotiated transaction, he asserted unequivocally that "one way or the other, we’re going to have Greenland."
In 2018, China formally characterized itself as a "near-Arctic state," seeking greater involvement in the region. As part of its broader Belt and Road Initiative, Beijing has introduced plans to construct a “Polar Silk Road,” aimed at establishing economic connections with Arctic states and expanding its reach.
Addressing US claims regarding the necessity of controlling Greenland to thwart China and Russia, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that China's Arctic endeavors are focused on fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development and comply fully with international law. Mao refrained from detailing specific activities.
"The rights and freedoms of all countries to conduct lawful activities in the Arctic must be thoroughly respected," Mao said, without directly referencing Greenland. She added that the US should avoid exploiting other nations as a pretext for pursuing its objectives. According to Mao, the Arctic region holds significance for the collective interests of the international community.
Diplomatic engagements are ongoing, with Danish and Greenlandic representatives scheduled to visit Washington this week for discussions. Additionally, arrangements are underway for American senators to travel to Denmark as part of diplomatic efforts related to the issue.