Heads up Arctic watchers! ❄️ This Thursday, Jan 22, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun spoke up against the idea of a “China threat” in Greenland, calling it “baseless” and driven by self-interest.
Guo stressed that China opposes unfounded allegations and using any country as a pretext for selfish gains. He reiterated that the principles of the UN Charter should guide how nations interact, especially in sensitive regions like the Arctic.
On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump said discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte produced “the framework of a future deal” for Greenland and the broader Arctic. A NATO spokesperson added that Denmark, Greenland, and the US are seeking to prevent Russia and China from gaining economic or military footholds on the island.
Beijing fired back, calling the so-called “China threat” claim a distraction from other players’ agendas. 🚫
Why it matters: Greenland’s melting ice is reshaping coastlines and weather patterns from Mumbai to Jakarta. 🌊 By challenging the “China threat” narrative, China is pushing for multilateral dialogue rather than zero-sum power plays over Arctic resources.
For South and Southeast Asian youth passionate about climate justice and global cooperation, this exchange highlights the need for transparent talks on Arctic research, sustainable development, and indigenous rights. Tech-driven solutions—like ice-mapping drones—could be game-changers when everyone has a seat at the table. 🤝
Bottom line: As geopolitical heat ramps up even in the icy north, staying informed and championing cooperative approaches might be our best bet to tackle climate change and share the benefits of new frontiers. 🌏
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
