China has rejected claims that it poses a strategic threat in Greenland, dismissing what it called baseless allegations used to advance narrow geopolitical interests. Speaking at a regular press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said China opposes the use of the so-called “China threat” narrative and maintains no intention of competing for influence in the Arctic region.
Guo’s remarks followed comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte had produced a framework for a future deal involving Greenland and the wider Arctic. A NATO spokesperson later indicated that talks among Denmark, Greenland, and the United States would aim to prevent Russia and China from gaining an economic or military foothold on the island.
“The so-called China threat is baseless,” Guo said, stressing that China believes relations between countries should be handled in accordance with the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. He reiterated that China follows an independent foreign policy of peace and engages with all nations on the basis of mutual respect and equality.
China also moved to distance itself from speculation that it would exploit growing transatlantic tensions over Greenland. Trump’s renewed ambition to assert U.S. control over the Danish territory has unsettled NATO allies and triggered debate in Europe over long-standing security dependence on Washington, compounded by U.S. threats of trade tariffs against the bloc.
Asked whether Beijing welcomed the turmoil, Guo said China has “no intention and will not compete for influence with any country,” adding that China seeks to remain a positive, stabilising, and constructive force in international affairs.
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has warned that transatlantic tariffs and divisions among allies could benefit both China and Russia. In response, Guo said China would not comment on relations between European countries and the United States but reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to developing ties with Europe based on mutual respect and win-win cooperation.
China’s foreign ministry also said the Greenland issue underscores the need for Europe to strengthen strategic autonomy and diversify partnerships, arguing that Europe’s future should be shaped by its collective interests rather than external pressure. Beijing, Guo added, will continue to uphold the international system with the UN at its core and the international order based on international law.
