“The Arctic is a beacon for international cooperation, where the rule of law prevails. “As global security is being threatened, it’s more important than ever for democracies like Canada and Denmark to work together, alongside Indigenous peoples, to resolve our differences in accordance with international law.” Mr Kofod said that its resolution came at a time when “the rules-based international order is under pressure” and democratic values “are under attack”. Alluding to the war in Ukraine, he said: “We have demonstrated how long-standing disputes can be resolved peacefully by playing by the rules”, adding that he hoped Canada and Denmark’s experience would “inspire other countries to follow the same path”. “This sends a strong signal: diplomacy and the rule of law actually works, and that great result can be achieved by following the rules.” Denmark had feared that losing the ownership battle would undermine relations with Greenland. Canada, meanwhile, worried that a loss would weaken its negotiating position in a more consequential dispute with the United States over the Beaufort Sea, in far northwestern Canada, believed to be rich in hydrocarbons.
