Rich Resources in Greenland: An Untapped Opportunity?

The U.S. shows interest in Greenland due to its strategic site and mineral wealth. Efforts are underway for a purchase proposal. Greenland's resources include rare earths, graphite, copper, nickel, zinc, and more, but extraction faces roadblocks from environmental policies and indigenous opposition.

In a renewed geopolitical move, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump last week emphasized his interest in gaining control over Greenland, a Danish semi-autonomous territory. The island's strategic location and mineral wealth make it a valuable asset to the U.S.

Advocates of Trump's proposal in the U.S. House of Representatives are working to gain traction for a bill that could authorize negotiations for Greenland's acquisition. Notably, Greenland's Prime Minister, Mute Egede, has indicated willingness to engage in discussions but based on the territory's conditions.

Greenland is a hotspot for minerals, with a recent 2023 survey revealing it holds 25 out of 34 critical raw materials identified by the European Commission. However, its mining sector faces challenges, including regulatory hurdles and environmental concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)