Feb 18 β€’ 19:24 UTC πŸ‡±πŸ‡Ή Lithuania Lrytas

King Frederik X of Denmark Goes to Greenland to Show Support

Danish King Frederik X is visiting Greenland in a symbolic show of support amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and Denmark over Arctic territorial claims.

King Frederik X of Denmark, aged 57, visited Greenland, where he was greeted by local citizens waving Greenlandic flags at Nuuk airport, and welcomed by Greenland's Prime Minister, Jens Frederik Nielsen. This visit occurs in the context of rising tensions between the United States and Denmark, particularly after former President Donald Trump threatened to take control of the resource-rich Arctic territory, which has led to increased scrutiny over geopolitical interests in the region.

During his visit, which is marked as highly symbolic, King Frederik is expected to spend time in the capital city of Nuuk, where he will meet Prime Minister Nielsen, visit a local high school and a fishing company, and engage in community-building activities including a coffee break with the public at a cultural center. On Thursday, he plans to travel to Maniitsoq, located about 150 kilometers north of Nuuk, followed by a visit to Denmark's Arctic training center in Kangerlussuaq on Friday, showcasing Denmark's commitment to its territories in the Arctic.

Despite Denmark's historical role as a colonial administrator of autonomous territories, the monarchy, including King Frederik, remains popular among the Greenlandic people, who see such visits as a reaffirmation of ties and support. The visit is anticipated not only to foster local goodwill but also to navigate current geopolitical challenges, emphasizing Denmark’s role in the Arctic amid ongoing international discussions regarding territorial claims and resource exploitation.

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