“I would approach this question differently”: Tokayev comments on Greenland’s future

Tengrinews.kz – In an interview with Pakistan’s The News International, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev commented on possible scenarios for Greenland’s future.
A journalist asked whether Tokayev, as an experienced diplomat, considers a military seizure of Greenland possible.

“I would approach this question somewhat differently. There are many comparable cases in international practice in which countries enter into long-term lease arrangements for specific territories or strategic infrastructure, often for shared, mutually beneficial objectives,” Tokayev replied.

He stressed that any such decisions must be considered strictly within the framework of international law, including respect for state sovereignty and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter.
Tokayev suggested one possible option could be a long-term leasing arrangement between the United States and Denmark.

“As a practical option, it is suggested that the US and Denmark consider a 120-year leasing arrangement for Greenland. Under this arrangement, Greenland would legally remain part of Denmark, meaning Denmark’s sovereignty would not be violated or broken, while practical arrangements could serve shared strategic interests,” he said.

Tokayev expressed hope that through dialogue, responsible policy and respect for international law, the parties would ultimately reach a pragmatic, mutually acceptable solution.