Danish Foreign Minister Rasmussen stated on the 8th that if the residents of Greenland wish, Greenland could potentially become independent, but it will not become a state of the United States.
Danish Foreign Minister Rasmussen said, "We fully acknowledge Greenland's own ambitions. Should these ambitions be realized, Greenland will become independent, although it is unlikely to become a federal state of the United States."
He noted that with the increased activities of Russia and China in the Arctic region, it is reasonable for the United States to have heightened concerns about Arctic security issues.
He said, "I don't think we are in a diplomatic policy crisis. We are willing to engage in dialogue with the Americans to explore how to work more closely together to ensure that American ambitions are realized."
The relationship between Greenland and Denmark has recently been strained due to accusations of colonial-era abuse against Greenlanders. While many Greenlanders dream of independence from Denmark, Danish King Frederik remains popular among Greenlanders. Last month, the Danish royal family even modified its coat of arms to enlarge the polar bear symbolizing Greenland.
The Prime Minister of Greenland's autonomous government, Egede, stated that the island is not for sale and emphasized advancing independence in his New Year's speech.