Canada is set to open its first diplomatic outpost in Greenland in a significant show of solidarity following US President Donald Trump's threats to take control of the territory.
A delegation of senior Canadian officials, including Governor General Mary Simon and foreign minister Anita Anand, are travelling to Nuuk on Friday to formally open Canada's consulate, accompanied by a Canadian Coast Guard ship.
Ahead of the trip, Simon stated Canada 'stands firmly in support of the people of Greenland who will determine their own future.'
Their visit coincides with the launch of a similar consulate by French officials in the territory, marking a historic expansion of foreign diplomatic presence in Greenland, where previously only Iceland and the US maintained formal consulates.
This move by Canada and France highlights the continued support from NATO allies amid past comments by Trump suggesting the need for the US to 'own' Greenland for national security reasons.
Greenland has been increasingly prominent in Canadian foreign policy discussions, as interactions have intensified over the years, especially after Trump's contentious remarks. The opening of this consulate was originally planned for late 2025 but was delayed due to adverse weather conditions.
Greenland is only a short flight from Iqaluit, the capital of Canada’s northern territory Nunavut, and strong connections exist between Inuit communities across both regions.
Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami President Natan Obed noted that the consulate represents years of advocacy from the Inuit community, with at least 50 Canadian Inuit scheduled to participate in the opening ceremony.
The Caribbean landscapes are echoed in the sentiments of the Canadian government, which sees Arctic defense as a paramount national security priority.
Foreign Minister Anand has emphasized the importance of the Arctic region in protection strategies both for Canada and for contributing to global security, ensuring a more pronounced military presence in the Arctic territories.
