Leaders of seven European countries on Tuesday reaffirmed that Greenland "belongs to its people," stressing that issues concerning Denmark and Greenland must be decided solely by Denmark and Greenland, according to a joint statement.
The statement, released by Denmark's Prime Minister's Office, was signed by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
"Greenland belongs to its people. It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland," the statement said.
The leaders underscored that Arctic security remains a key priority for Europe and is critical for international and transatlantic security. They noted that NATO has made clear the Arctic region is a priority and that European allies are increasing their presence there.
The statement noted that the Kingdom of Denmark, including Greenland, is part of NATO, and said security in the Arctic must be achieved collectively with NATO allies, including the United States, by upholding the principles of the UN Charter, including sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders.
Calling the United States an "essential partner," the leaders also referred to the 1951 defence agreement between Denmark and the United States.
The Prime Minister of Greenland Jens-Frederik Nielsen said on Tuesday that Greenland is open to dialogue and discussions with the U.S., but "they must take place through the proper channels and in respect of international law."
The PM also urged respect from the U.S. side, saying "Our country is not an object in great power rhetoric." Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, who was appointed by President Donald Trump last month as the U.S. special envoy to Greenland, said that Trump "supports an independent Greenland with economic ties and trade opportunities for the United States," Reuters reported.
Trump said in a telephone interview on Sunday with The Atlantic that the United States "absolutely" needs Greenland. He also discussed the U.S. intervention in Venezuela.
Since taking office in January 2025, Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in gaining control of Greenland, saying that he would not rule out using "military or economic coercion" to achieve that goal.
European leaders reaffirm Greenland sovereignty, stress Arctic security
European leaders reaffirm Greenland sovereignty, stress Arctic security
European leaders reaffirm Greenland sovereignty, stress Arctic security
Shanghai's shopping hubs have blended retail with cultural experience this winter, attracting consumers with themed markets, live performances, and art exhibitions to boost spending.
At the start of 2026, many commercial districts in Shanghai enhanced consumer experience and stimulated spending enthusiasm through diverse celebratory activities, turning them into immersive seasonal destinations.
Even on weekdays, the East Market Bonfire Fair and Panlong Water Market at Panlong Tiandi still draw large crowds.
"Such a stylish and lovely place. I come here for a walk every day," said a resident.
"It's more modern and fresh. There are these integrated stores here that kind of break away from the traditional look and feel," said another.
Consumption incentives such as complimentary cultural and creative gifts upon reaching specified spending thresholds and discounts at designated stores have been introduced here. At the same time, the commercial district is committed to preserving and promoting intangible cultural heritage.
The district rolled out consumption incentives, including complimentary cultural gifts for shoppers meeting spending thresholds and discounts at designated stores. Last month, it drew 1.85 million visitors and generated 74 million yuan (about 10.6 million U.S. dollars) in sales.
"It's a great experience for the kid. Since he grew up in Germany, this is quite a novel experience for him," said a visitor.
"I've been selling sugar art at this water market for two and a half years now. Our business has been really good. For us, it's not just about running a business. We're also keeping a tradition alive," said the owner of a sugar painting stall.
Similarly, Xintiandi, a major commercial hub in central Shanghai, also launched new winter cultural tourism offerings to boost consumption. About 30 aurora light shows and over 40 roaming street performances are scheduled to be held here, lasting from day to night for nearly a month.
"We have worked with four different artists. They have different illustrations to tell people the story of Dongtai Road going back to 60 years ago. Every year, we organize four to six different markets, three of which are flower-themed," said Clarence Lee, senior commercial director of Shui On Xintiandi, a commercial property investor and manager.
"There are some cosmetic counters opened here, and they offer spa services. I think this is a really great gift option for the Spring Festival," said a visitor.
Xintiandi, meanwhile, has been staging its own celebration with a Winter Wonderlust Market and 15 live performances, offering visitors a rich multi-sensory experience.
"It's a good mixture between European architecture [and] Chinese one, and also I really like now to see it with the lights during the night. People from Shanghai are very nice and very relaxed during the day, but also during the night," said Davide, a visitor from Italy.
To stimulate retail and tourism consumption, the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce said that it will allocate more than 90 million yuan (about 12.89 million U.S. dollars) in fiscal funds to 12 key districts during the New Year and Spring Festival, including Lujiazui, West Nanjing Road, Xujiahui and Wujiaochang.
The support will include vouchers, spend-and-save promotions, and prize-draw activities.
Shanghai blends shopping with cultural themes to boost winter spending
