Italy Advocates Strategic NATO Presence in Arctic Amid Greenland Tensions

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called for a coordinated NATO presence in the Arctic to mitigate risks and respond to the growing influence of other global powers. With its rich resources and strategic routes, the Arctic is becoming a focal point amid escalating U.S.-Danish tensions over Greenland.

Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, emphasized the urgent need for NATO to establish a coordinated presence in the Arctic. This call to action comes in response to heightened tensions among Western allies concerning Greenland and potential interference by other global actors in the resource-rich region.

Italy, an observer on the Arctic Council since 2013, has intensified its policy focus amid the recent U.S.-Danish discord over Greenland. The territory remains a significant area of contention as the U.S. seeks to prevent Russian or Chinese influence, despite Denmark's opposition to American control.

The Italian government's policy outlines Russia's increased military activities in the Arctic, while also highlighting China's ambitions as a 'near-Arctic state.' These developments point to the importance of the region, with potential Arctic shipping routes offering promising prospects for European shipbuilders like Italy's Fincantieri.

(With inputs from agencies.)