NUUK, Greenland, Feb 6 (Reuters) - The ruling Siumut party in Greenland has announced its intention to hold a vote on independence following the upcoming general election next month. This decision has been driven by recent interest expressed by U.S. President in acquiring the island.
As a semi-autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland has called for a general election to be held on March 11.
Key issues in the election campaign include Greenland's desire for independence and its relationships with Denmark and the United States, particularly under President Trump's vocal interest in acquiring the significant island.
Formerly a Danish colony until 1953, Greenland boasts extensive self-governing rights.
The Siumut party, a member of Greenland's two-party government coalition, intends to utilize a provision in a 2009 law that granted Greenland greater autonomy, giving it the right to negotiate full independence. The party's political spokesperson, Doris Jensen, emphasized the necessity for Greenland to be independent from Denmark to facilitate future negotiations.
Jensen added, "Until our country achieves the status of an independent state, our opportunities to officially participate in negotiations will be limited."
Siumut party leader Erik Jensen indicated to Danish broadcaster DR that the vote on independence is expected to take place "within the next election period," which occurs every four years.
All political parties in parliament have confirmed their opposition to Greenland becoming part of the United States. A recent poll revealed that 85% of Greenlanders are against this idea, with nearly half considering Trump's interest as a threat.
Greenland, known for its abundant untapped mineral resources, heavily relies on fishing and financial support from Denmark to sustain its economy.
Jensen stressed the importance of making any decisions regarding independence while considering all implications. "It must be an informed decision so that the population does not doubt the consequences. We have a welfare society that must be sustained. We also need to address certain economic aspects," he stated.
The social-democratic Siumut party holds 10 out of the 31 seats in parliament, whereas the country's third-largest party, Naleraq, has expressed its desire to immediately cut ties with Denmark.