Carney Defends Greenland, Urges Criticism of Economic Coercion Allies
Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a significant speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, addressing the current state of the international order. He emphasized the need for middle powers to acknowledge the diminished effectiveness of the rules-based system and leverage coalitions for survival amid economic coercion by great powers.
Key Points from Carney’s Address
During his speech, Carney made clear assertions regarding the challenges facing smaller nations:
- Middle powers should stop pretending the rules-based international order is functioning effectively.
- Economic integration is increasingly used as a weapon by great powers, creating vulnerabilities for smaller countries.
- Canada strongly opposes the use of tariffs related to Greenland and advocates for collaborative efforts to ensure security in the Arctic.
Critique of Current Global Relations
While Carney refrained from explicitly naming U.S. President Donald Trump, he highlighted that the current American administration has contributed to global tensions. He noted a “rupture” in relations, particularly referencing Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on European allies to further U.S. interests regarding Greenland.
Carney stated, “When we only negotiate bilaterally with a hegemon, we negotiate from weakness”, underscoring the need for middle powers to unite rather than compete for favor from larger nations. He called on countries to publicly denounce economic coercion, irrespective of the source.
Commitment to NATO and Arctic Sovereignty
Mr. Carney stressed Canada’s unwavering commitment to NATO and the collective defense of Greenland. He affirmed support for Greenland and Denmark’s rights to determine their future and indicated that Canada participates regularly in NATO exercises.
Response to Trump’s Stance on Greenland
Trump’s demands regarding Greenland, including potential tariffs of up to 25%, have sparked significant concern among allies. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed Carney’s sentiments, calling the coercion a mistake and emphasizing the EU’s commitment to maintaining Danish sovereignty over Greenland.
The Future of Middle Powers
In a rapidly changing global landscape, Carney urged middle powers to collaborate on creating new institutions and frameworks. He proposed that these countries act in solidarity on shared concerns instead of waiting for more powerful nations to reinstate a global order.
His closing remarks suggested that the time has come for middle powers to cease maintaining the illusion of an effective rules-based international order and instead embrace a new strategy for collective action and security.
