Greenland Holds Parliamentary Election as US Interest Grows.

The semi-autonomous Danish territory of Greenland will hold a parliamentary election on March 11 with independence as a major campaign issue following remarks made by U.S.

President Donald Trump that he wants to govern the largest island in the world. Copenhagen took control of foreign policy, defence, and monetary policy after Greenland was formally incorporated into the Kingdom of Denmark in 1953.

The right to hold an independence referendum has existed since 2009, and some residents view the election as an opportunity to secede.

The island has a rich but largely untapped supply of resources, including ample rare earth minerals.

Trump views Greenland’s strategic location as the shortest route from Europe to North America as crucial for the U.S. ballistic missile warning system.

Polls indicate that most Greenlanders support political and economic independence from its former colonial ruler, but opinions vary on the timing and the potential impact on living standards.

Denmark contributes just under $1 billion annually to the local economy.