JAKARTA - European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday called for increased investment in security in the Arctic, as well as the use of a surge in European defense spending for equipment such as icebreakers.
"Collectively, we have invested less in the Arctic and Arctic security. So now is the time to increase it," von der Leyen said at a joint press conference with European Council President Antonio Costa, Anadolu (23/1) reported.
His remarks came after EU leaders met in Brussels to discuss developments with Washington, following tensions over US President Donald Trump's interest in Greenland due to its strategic position in the Arctic, its abundant mineral resources, and growing concerns about Russian and Chinese influence in the region.
Reiterating they were working to improve their relationship with Greenland, von der Leyen noted the Commission would propose a "substantial investment package."
"In addition to investment, we also intend to deepen cooperation with the US and all partners in Arctic security. In particular, I believe we must use our increased defense spending for equipment that is ready for the Arctic, for example, European icebreakers," he said.
Pointing to "real geopolitical needs," von der Leyen also stressed the need to strengthen the bloc's security and defense arrangements with partners, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Norway, and Iceland.
Meanwhile, Costa reiterated that Denmark and Greenland "have the full support of the European Union."
"We believe that relations between partners and allies should be managed in a friendly and respectful manner. Europe and the United States have common interests in Arctic security, especially through NATO. The European Union will also play a stronger role in this region," said Costa.
Furthermore, Costa viewed the decision of the Uncle Sam's country to withdraw from imposing tariffs on several European countries related to the Greenland issue as "positive", underlining that additional tariffs would not be in line with the EU-US trade agreement.
"Our focus now must be on moving forward in the implementation of the agreement. The goal remains the stabilization of effective trade relations between the EU and the US," Costa explained.
He warned that the European Union would continue to defend its interests and would protect itself "from any form of coercion."
"The EU has the strength and the tools to do so and will do so if and when necessary," he added.
Costa also expressed willingness to continue to engage "constructively" with the US on "all issues of mutual interest."
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