06.02.2026 17:53
France became the first European Union country to establish an official diplomatic representation on the island by opening a consulate in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. U.S. President Trump had imposed import tariffs on many European countries for opposing the U.S. acquisition of Greenland.
France became the first European Union (EU) country to establish an official diplomatic representation in Greenland by opening a consulate in the capital Nuuk.
In a statement from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was announced that Jean-Noel Poirier has officially started his role as the French Consul in Nuuk, Greenland, as of today.
THEY BECAME THE FIRST EU COUNTRY TO OPEN A CONSULATE
This step was noted to be taken in line with the commitments made by French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to Greenland in June 2025. The ministry reported that France is the first EU country to open a consulate in Greenland as part of its strategy to expand its consular network.
"WE WILL DEEPEN ECONOMIC COOPERATION PROJECTS"
The primary duties of Consul Poirier, who started his role under the instruction of French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, were also announced. Accordingly, the consul will work to serve the French community in the region as well as to deepen existing cultural, scientific, and economic cooperation projects with Greenland. Additionally, strengthening political ties with local authorities in Nuuk is also a goal.
"FRANCE HAS FRIENDSHIP TIES WITH DENMARK AND GREENLAND"
The statement reminded that there are already deep friendship ties and significant joint projects between France, Denmark, and Greenland. The Paris administration also reiterated its commitment to respect the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark on the occasion of the opening of this new diplomatic mission.
WHAT HAD HAPPENED?
U.S. President Trump had stated that his country "needed Greenland for national security purposes" and that this was "vital for the constructed Golden Dome."
After a meeting of the foreign ministers of the U.S., Denmark, and Greenland in Washington, it was noted that fundamental disagreements continued, and it was recorded that the U.S. had an "open desire to seize Greenland."
Greenland, an autonomous region of the Kingdom of Denmark, had previously rejected approaches from the U.S. that included the transfer of sovereignty.
Recently, Denmark had called for increased military cooperation in the region with its allies. In this context, European countries had announced that they would send small military units and officers to Greenland.
President Trump announced on January 17 that a 10% tariff would be imposed on goods imported from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland starting February 1, due to their opposition to the U.S. acquiring Greenland, and that this rate would be increased to 25% on June 1.