Denmark: ‘Liberals warn against China’s arrival in the Arctic’

Former finance minister and leader of the liberal Venstre opposition party, Claus Hjort Frederiksen, has warned against China’s ambitions in Greenland. In recent months, several Chinese companies have begun exploration projects or negotiations with a view to operating — either independently or in partnership with Western companies — mineral mines on the island.

“Mining operations are a means, and not an end,” remarked Claus Hjort Frederiksen in an interview with the daily. He further confirmed that Beijing’s real objective is to gain a foothold in the Arctic”, citing Beijing’s application for observer membership of the Arctic Council.