PM Babiš hopes Greenland dispute can be resolved diplomatically

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš said he hopes the dispute over Greenland can be resolved through diplomacy, speaking in a video posted on social media ahead of his departure for Davos, where he is attending the World Economic Forum. He stressed that Greenland is clearly part of Denmark and noted that, as Denmark and the United States are NATO allies, the issue should be addressed through dialogue. Babiš added that threats are counterproductive and that the matter should be handled through standard diplomatic channels.

US President Donald Trump has been pressuring Denmark to relinquish Greenland and has threatened to impose 10 per cent tariffs on several European countries from early February over their support for Copenhagen.

Babiš said he expects progress to be made during discussions in Davos, which will also be attended by Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

He also commented on his recent purchase of a globe, which drew online jokes, explaining that Greenland appears larger than it actually is on flat maps.

Author: Hannah Vaughan