Denmark PM Mette Frederiksen, from right, Greenland's head of government Jens-Frederik Nielsen and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen
EUROPEAN Commission president Ursula von der Leyen unveiled a €200 million (£171m) investment package for Greenland yesterday during a visit to the semi-autonomous Danish territory.
“Greenland can count on the EU,” Ms von der Leyen said, after signing an EU-Greenland declaration with Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.
The EU has increased its focus on Greenland since US President Donald Trump began insisting that the United States should take control of the island for security reasons.
It aims to help Greenland improve education and fisheries, internet connectivity, hydropower systems and the use of critical raw minerals. Funds are also earmarked for better housing, support to small businesses and sustainable tourism.
Denmark and seven of its European allies sent a small group of military personnel to the island in January in a gesture of support for Greenland’s sovereignty.
In response, Mr Trump threatened to slap new tariffs on Denmark, Britain, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden. He backed down after Nato agreed to an Arctic security deal.
Ms von der Leyen’s visit coincided with 11 Nato countries, including the US, beginning military exercises in Greenland yesterday.
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