Canada Expresses Concern Over Trump’s Greenland Tariff Threats, Says PM Carney
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has voiced significant concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats regarding Greenland. During a press conference in Doha, Qatar, Carney stated, “We’re concerned about this escalation.” This remark followed Trump’s announcement that he plans to impose tariffs on several European countries until they consider selling Greenland to the U.S.
Concerns Over Trump’s Greenland Tariff Threats
Trump’s potential tariffs target Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland. He indicated a 10% tariff, with a possibility of increasing it to 25% on June 1 if negotiations do not progress. Carney emphasized that decisions about Greenland should be left to Greenland and Denmark.
Solidarity Among European Nations
In response, the nations mentioned have rallied behind Denmark, warning that such tariff threats could destabilize NATO’s cohesive structure. A collective statement from the eight countries reaffirmed their support for Greenland’s sovereignty, stating, “Tariff threats undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral.”
Increased Military Presence in Greenland
Denmark has heightened its military presence in Greenland, alongside NATO allies, sending a clear message to the U.S. Carignan, Canada’s Chief of Defence Staff, remarked that discussions about Greenland’s future certainly affect NATO dynamics, expressing optimism about the alliance’s ability to manage current tensions.
Denmark’s move to enhance its military resources includes deploying troops and other assets in the Arctic region, highlighting a significant shift towards addressing Arctic security concerns.
Canada’s Position and NATO Relations
Carney reiterated Canada’s commitment to cooperating closely with Denmark on Arctic security matters. He indicated that Canada is actively exploring proposals to contribute to the military efforts in Greenland. “There’s definitely a lot of interest in Arctic security from a NATO perspective,” Carney noted.
Meeting Trump’s Request on Gaza
Additionally, Carney has been invited by Trump to join the “Board of Peace” to oversee governance in the Gaza Strip. A senior official mentioned that Carney intends to accept this role to ensure Canada has a voice in the decision-making process, although details on the proposal are still being clarified.
Strategic Investments from Qatar
During his trip, Carney revealed Qatar’s plans for substantial investments in Canada’s major projects, which will help accelerate construction and create jobs. He emphasized the importance of fostering cultural ties and enhancing tourism through expanded direct flights between Canada and Qatar.
Carney aims to finalize the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement with Qatar by summer, further strengthening bilateral relations.
His nine-day trip includes attendance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, marking a significant diplomatic schedule.
