美利坚合众国政府、丹麦王国政府与格陵兰政府签署的协议
来源:白宫 (White House) | 时间:2026-09-22T15:48:16+00:00
美利坚合众国政府、丹麦王国政府及格陵兰政府关于根据美利坚合众国政府与丹麦王国政府之间的北大西洋条约修订和补充 1951 年 4 月 27 日协议的协议王国政府 [...] 美利坚合众国政府和丹麦王国政府以及格陵兰政府之间的后协议首先出现在白宫。
简报和声明
美利坚合众国政府、丹麦王国政府与格陵兰政府签署的协议
白宫
2026 年 9 月 22 日
美利坚合众国政府、丹麦王国政府及格陵兰政府关于根据美利坚合众国政府与丹麦王国政府之间的北大西洋条约修订和补充 1951 年 4 月 27 日协议的协议丹麦王国政府关于保卫格陵兰(1951 年防务协议),包括所有与之相关的后续协议
序言
美利坚合众国政府(以下简称“美国”)、丹麦王国政府(以下简称“丹麦王国”)以及格陵兰政府(以下简称“格陵兰”),以下统称为“双方”,单称为“一方”;
认识到 1949 年《北大西洋公约》所规定的权利和义务,并考虑到格陵兰岛自那时以来通过丹麦王国一直是北约的一部分;
回顾双方基于对民主、人权和法治的深刻尊重而开展的悠久合作历史,以及双方八十多年来密切的防务合作,为加强美国、格陵兰岛和北大西洋公约组织其他地区的安全与稳定做出了贡献;
重申丹麦王国的主权和领土完整,并确认格陵兰人民是根据国际法享有自决权的人民;
注意到第 21 号法案第 21 条规定了格陵兰独立的程序。 2009 年 6 月 12 日关于格陵兰自治的第 473 号法令;
认识到双方根据国际法和国家法律框架各自的义务和承诺,包括双方之间的所有现有协议;
认识到保护格陵兰原始环境的必要性,并重申1991年谅解备忘录和2004年联合声明中有关环境保护的第六条;
承认格陵兰人民的经济、社会和文化权利,包括对其土地和生活方式的权利,包括狩猎、捕鱼和其他传统、文化、历史、未来活动和发展;
考虑到防务安排通过联合各方集体防御努力促进了北大西洋公约地区的稳定和福祉,维护了和平与安全,并发展了抵抗武装袭击的集体能力;
认识到美国对格陵兰岛和北大西洋公约地区其他地区的安全和防卫做出的不可或缺的历史和持续贡献,包括自二战和北约成立之前的一个世纪的大部分时间里做出的重大牺牲和花费的数十亿美元,以及美国军队在现在和未来保卫格陵兰岛领土方面发挥的不可替代的作用;
承认美国驻努克领事馆的重新开放以及美国与格陵兰岛对相互科教合作与交流、矿产合作、经济发展和商业促进合作以及文化和地方伙伴关系所做的贡献;
还承认格陵兰岛对双方共同安全利益的贡献及其随之分担的相关风险和责任,以及双方承诺按照 2004 年《伊加利库协议》的规定,在北约内部继续密切合作,确保北大西洋安全;
认识到对手在北极和高北地区军事活动的增加和战略利益的增长给该地区带来的安全挑战;
认识到各方国际和平与和平共处的共同目标,并尊重格陵兰为此目标作出的重要贡献;
重申共同目标是最大限度地从防卫区为格陵兰人民带来真正、有形和实质性的利益;
注意到北极安全形势正在发生变化,未来需要加大力度保障北极安全;
认识到双方的共同利益是允许美国在保卫北大西洋公约地区、格陵兰岛和美洲大陆所需的范围内军事进入格陵兰岛领土,包括通过建立金顶防御系统;和
因此希望进一步修改和补充防务安排,以加强其并强化其永久性,
特此同意如下:
我。
目标
本协定修订和补充了防务安排,应有助于双方采取任何必要或适当的措施,迅速履行各自和共同在格陵兰的责任,包括保卫北大西洋公约地区、格陵兰和美洲大陆,同时尊重格陵兰社会的利益并为格陵兰社会提供福利。
二.
北约参与
双方支持北约在北极地区加强参与,包括规划、存在、演习和联合情报收集等方面。
三.
定义
就本协议而言:
“1949 年北大西洋公约”是指 1949 年 4 月 4 日在华盛顿签署的北大西洋公约。
“1951 年防务协定”是指美国与丹麦王国于 1951 年 4 月 27 日在哥本哈根签署的根据《北大西洋公约》关于格陵兰岛防务的协定。
“1991 年谅解备忘录”是指美国和丹麦王国(包括格陵兰自治政府)于 1991 年 3 月 13 日在哥本哈根签署的关于使用桑德斯特罗姆航空设施、库卢苏克机场和与美国在格陵兰军事活动有关的其他事项的谅解备忘录。
“2004 年伊加利库协议”是指美国与丹麦王国(包括格陵兰自治政府)于 2004 年 8 月 6 日在伊加利库签署的修订和补充 1951 年防务协议,包括与之相关的后续协议的协议。
“2004年联合声明”是指双方于2004年8月6日在伊加利库发表的《格陵兰环境合作联合声明》。
“2020 年外交照会”是指美国与丹麦王国之间于 2020 年 10 月 27 日交换的有关合同的外交照会。
“防务区”是指美国根据防务安排在格陵兰建立和/或运营军事基地的地区。
“防务安排”是指 1951 年防务协议,以及随后的修订和补充协议以及双方之间的相关非约束性安排,如附件 1 所示。
“格陵兰自治法”是指第 1 号法案。 2009 年 6 月 12 日关于格陵兰自治的第 473 号决议。
“常设委员会”是指根据 1991 年谅解备忘录设立的委员会,旨在促进有关美国在格陵兰军事存在问题的磋商和信息交流。
“特别敏感部门或活动”是指被确定为特别敏感的部门或活动,包括但不限于关键基础设施和资源开采。
“领海”是指丹麦王国根据《联合国海洋法公约》所反映的国际海洋法在国内法中规定的格陵兰岛周围的领海。
[正文过长,已截取前部进行翻译]
美利坚合众国政府、丹麦王国政府与格陵兰政府签署的协议
白宫
2026 年 9 月 22 日
美利坚合众国政府、丹麦王国政府及格陵兰政府关于根据美利坚合众国政府与丹麦王国政府之间的北大西洋条约修订和补充 1951 年 4 月 27 日协议的协议丹麦王国政府关于保卫格陵兰(1951 年防务协议),包括所有与之相关的后续协议
序言
美利坚合众国政府(以下简称“美国”)、丹麦王国政府(以下简称“丹麦王国”)以及格陵兰政府(以下简称“格陵兰”),以下统称为“双方”,单称为“一方”;
认识到 1949 年《北大西洋公约》所规定的权利和义务,并考虑到格陵兰岛自那时以来通过丹麦王国一直是北约的一部分;
回顾双方基于对民主、人权和法治的深刻尊重而开展的悠久合作历史,以及双方八十多年来密切的防务合作,为加强美国、格陵兰岛和北大西洋公约组织其他地区的安全与稳定做出了贡献;
重申丹麦王国的主权和领土完整,并确认格陵兰人民是根据国际法享有自决权的人民;
注意到第 21 号法案第 21 条规定了格陵兰独立的程序。 2009 年 6 月 12 日关于格陵兰自治的第 473 号法令;
认识到双方根据国际法和国家法律框架各自的义务和承诺,包括双方之间的所有现有协议;
认识到保护格陵兰原始环境的必要性,并重申1991年谅解备忘录和2004年联合声明中有关环境保护的第六条;
承认格陵兰人民的经济、社会和文化权利,包括对其土地和生活方式的权利,包括狩猎、捕鱼和其他传统、文化、历史、未来活动和发展;
考虑到防务安排通过联合各方集体防御努力促进了北大西洋公约地区的稳定和福祉,维护了和平与安全,并发展了抵抗武装袭击的集体能力;
认识到美国对格陵兰岛和北大西洋公约地区其他地区的安全和防卫做出的不可或缺的历史和持续贡献,包括自二战和北约成立之前的一个世纪的大部分时间里做出的重大牺牲和花费的数十亿美元,以及美国军队在现在和未来保卫格陵兰岛领土方面发挥的不可替代的作用;
承认美国驻努克领事馆的重新开放以及美国与格陵兰岛对相互科教合作与交流、矿产合作、经济发展和商业促进合作以及文化和地方伙伴关系所做的贡献;
还承认格陵兰岛对双方共同安全利益的贡献及其随之分担的相关风险和责任,以及双方承诺按照 2004 年《伊加利库协议》的规定,在北约内部继续密切合作,确保北大西洋安全;
认识到对手在北极和高北地区军事活动的增加和战略利益的增长给该地区带来的安全挑战;
认识到各方国际和平与和平共处的共同目标,并尊重格陵兰为此目标作出的重要贡献;
重申共同目标是最大限度地从防卫区为格陵兰人民带来真正、有形和实质性的利益;
注意到北极安全形势正在发生变化,未来需要加大力度保障北极安全;
认识到双方的共同利益是允许美国在保卫北大西洋公约地区、格陵兰岛和美洲大陆所需的范围内军事进入格陵兰岛领土,包括通过建立金顶防御系统;和
因此希望进一步修改和补充防务安排,以加强其并强化其永久性,
特此同意如下:
我。
目标
本协定修订和补充了防务安排,应有助于双方采取任何必要或适当的措施,迅速履行各自和共同在格陵兰的责任,包括保卫北大西洋公约地区、格陵兰和美洲大陆,同时尊重格陵兰社会的利益并为格陵兰社会提供福利。
二.
北约参与
双方支持北约在北极地区加强参与,包括规划、存在、演习和联合情报收集等方面。
三.
定义
就本协议而言:
“1949 年北大西洋公约”是指 1949 年 4 月 4 日在华盛顿签署的北大西洋公约。
“1951 年防务协定”是指美国与丹麦王国于 1951 年 4 月 27 日在哥本哈根签署的根据《北大西洋公约》关于格陵兰岛防务的协定。
“1991 年谅解备忘录”是指美国和丹麦王国(包括格陵兰自治政府)于 1991 年 3 月 13 日在哥本哈根签署的关于使用桑德斯特罗姆航空设施、库卢苏克机场和与美国在格陵兰军事活动有关的其他事项的谅解备忘录。
“2004 年伊加利库协议”是指美国与丹麦王国(包括格陵兰自治政府)于 2004 年 8 月 6 日在伊加利库签署的修订和补充 1951 年防务协议,包括与之相关的后续协议的协议。
“2004年联合声明”是指双方于2004年8月6日在伊加利库发表的《格陵兰环境合作联合声明》。
“2020 年外交照会”是指美国与丹麦王国之间于 2020 年 10 月 27 日交换的有关合同的外交照会。
“防务区”是指美国根据防务安排在格陵兰建立和/或运营军事基地的地区。
“防务安排”是指 1951 年防务协议,以及随后的修订和补充协议以及双方之间的相关非约束性安排,如附件 1 所示。
“格陵兰自治法”是指第 1 号法案。 2009 年 6 月 12 日关于格陵兰自治的第 473 号决议。
“常设委员会”是指根据 1991 年谅解备忘录设立的委员会,旨在促进有关美国在格陵兰军事存在问题的磋商和信息交流。
“特别敏感部门或活动”是指被确定为特别敏感的部门或活动,包括但不限于关键基础设施和资源开采。
“领海”是指丹麦王国根据《联合国海洋法公约》所反映的国际海洋法在国内法中规定的格陵兰岛周围的领海。
[正文过长,已截取前部进行翻译]
Briefings & Statements
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK TOGETHER WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF GREENLAND
The White House
September 22, 2026
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK TOGETHER WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF GREENLAND TO AMEND AND SUPPLEMENT THE AGREEMENT OF 27 APRIL 1951 PURSUANT TO THE NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK ON THE DEFENSE OF GREENLAND (1951 DEFENSE AGREEMENT), INCLUDING ALL RELEVANT SUBSEQUENT AGREEMENTS RELATED THERETO
Preamble
The Government of the United States of America (hereinafter “the United States”) and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark (hereinafter “the Kingdom of Denmark”) together with the Government of Greenland (hereinafter “Greenland”), hereinafter referred to collectively as “the Parties” and singularly as a “Party”;
Cognizant of the rights and obligations deriving from the 1949 North Atlantic Treaty, and considering that Greenland through the Kingdom of Denmark has been a part of NATO since then;
Recalling the long history of cooperation between the Parties based on their deep respect for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, as well as the more than eighty years of close defense cooperation between them, which has contributed to strengthening the security and stability of the United States, Greenland, and the rest of the North Atlantic Treaty area;
Reaffirming the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark, and recognizing that the People of Greenland constitute a people pursuant to international law with the right to self-determination;
Noting that the procedure for Greenlandic independence is set out in Article 21 of Act no. 473 of 12 June 2009 on Greenland Self-Government;
Recognizing the Parties’ respective obligations and commitments under international law as well as national legal frameworks, including all existing agreements between the Parties;
Recognizing the need to protect the pristine environment of Greenland and reaffirming Article VI concerning Protection of the Environment in the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding, as well as the 2004 Joint Declaration;
Recognizing the economic, social, and cultural rights of the People of Greenland, including with respect to their lands and their way of life, including hunting, fishing, and other traditional, cultural, historical, future activities, and developments;
Considering that the Defense Arrangements have promoted stability and well-being in the North Atlantic Treaty area by uniting the Parties’ efforts for collective defense and preserved peace and security as well as developed their collective capacity to resist armed attack;
Recognizing the United States’ indispensable historical and ongoing contributions to the security and defense of Greenland and the rest of the North Atlantic Treaty area, including significant sacrifices and billions of dollars spent over the better part of a century, dating back to before World War II and the establishment of NATO, and the irreplaceable role the United States military plays in the defense of the territory of Greenland now and in the future;
Acknowledging the reopening of the U.S. Consulate in Nuuk and the U.S. contributions to mutual scientific and educational cooperation and exchanges, minerals cooperation, cooperation on economic development and business promotion, and cultural and local partnerships together with Greenland;
Acknowledging as well Greenland’s contribution to the Parties’ mutual security interests and its consequent sharing of the associated risks and responsibilities, and the commitment of the Parties to continuing close cooperation within NATO in ensuring North Atlantic security, as set forth in the 2004 Igaliku Agreement;
Recognizing the security challenges in the Arctic and the High North posed by adversaries’ increased military activity and growing strategic interest in the region;
Recognizing the Parties’ common goal of international peace and peaceful co-existence, and respecting the important contribution of Greenland to this goal;
Reaffirming the common goal of maximizing real, tangible, and substantial benefits to the People of Greenland from the Defense Areas;
Noting that the security situation in the Arctic is changing and that more efforts are needed to ensure security there in the future;
Recognizing the Parties’ shared interest in allowing the United States to have military access to the territory of Greenland to the extent necessary to defend the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent, including through establishment of a Golden Dome defense system; and
Wishing therefore to further amend and supplement the Defense Arrangements, so as to strengthen them and reinforce their permanent nature,
Hereby agree as follows:
I.
Objectives
This Agreement amending and supplementing the Defense Arrangements shall facilitate the ability of the Parties to take any measures necessary or appropriate to carry out expeditiously their respective and joint responsibilities in Greenland, including to defend the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent, while respecting the interests of and providing benefits for the Greenlandic society.
II.
NATO engagement
The Parties support a stronger NATO engagement in the Arctic, including as regards planning, presence, exercises, and joint intelligence gathering.
III.
Definitions
For the purposes of this Agreement:
“1949 North Atlantic Treaty” means the North Atlantic Treaty signed at Washington on April 4, 1949.
“1951 Defense Agreement” means the Agreement Pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark Concerning the Defense of Greenland, signed at Copenhagen on April 27, 1951.
“1991 Memorandum of Understanding” means the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark, including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, Concerning the Use of Sondrestrom Aviation Facility, Kulusuk Airfield and Other Matters Related to United States Military Activities in Greenland, done in Copenhagen, March 13, 1991.
“2004 Igaliku Agreement” means the Agreement between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark, including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, to Amend and Supplement the 1951 Defense Agreement, Including Relevant Subsequent Agreements Related Thereto, signed at Igaliku on August 6, 2004.
“2004 Joint Declaration” means the Joint Declaration on Cooperation on the Environment in Greenland between the Parties issued on August 6, 2004 in Igaliku.
“2020 Diplomatic Notes” means the exchange of diplomatic notes between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark concerning contracting, dated October 27, 2020.
“Defense Area” means an area in Greenland where the United States establishes and/or operates a military base consistent with the Defense Arrangements.
“Defense Arrangements” means the 1951 Defense Agreement, together with subsequent amending and supplementing agreements and related non-binding arrangements between the Parties, as set out in Annex 1.
“Greenland Self-Government Law” means the Act no. 473 of 12 June 2009 on Greenland Self-Government.
“Permanent Committee” means a committee established under the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate consultation and exchange of information on matters relating to the United States military presence in Greenland.
“Particularly Sensitive Sectors or Activities” means sectors or activities determined to be particularly sensitive, including but not limited to critical infrastructure and the extraction of resources.
“Territorial Waters” means the territorial sea around Greenland as laid down in national law by the Kingdom of Denmark in accordance with the international law of the sea as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
IV.
Defense Areas
The Parties shall make best use of the procedures set out in the Defense Arrangements, including the 1951 Defense Agreement and the 2004 Igaliku Agreement, as amended and supplemented herein, to enable the following:
i. The United States shall be allowed to modernize and expand its activities in Pituffik Space Base;
ii. The United States shall be allowed to establish an additional Defense Area at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig in accordance with modalities and technical details to be mutually agreed by the Parties;
iii. The United States may establish additional defense areas in Greenland and strengthen its military operations or facilities. Either Party may identify the need for a new Defense Area for the defense of the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent. Such Party shall provide a proposal describing the location, scope, size, and types of activities of the proposed Defense Area as well as other modalities such as mitigating measures, including those necessary to take account of the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding and the 2004 Joint Declaration. The Parties shall immediately convene to engage in consultations through the Permanent Committee to decide implementation details based on mutual agreement. If no agreement is reached within 90 days at the Permanent Committee, consultations shall escalate to the deputy minister level, followed by the minister level;
iv. The United States shall award all contracts to commercial enterprises for goods and services related to the establishment, maintenance and servicing, including, but not limited to, construction and dismantling projects, of Defense Areas in Greenland to Greenlandic sources to the maximum extent possible, taking into account the capabilities and feasibility of such sources to implement contracts. To secure contracts to Greenlandic sources, the Parties agree to update the 2020 Diplomatic Notes accordingly.
V.
Unmanned military installations
The Kingdom of Denmark together with Greenland shall review requests to establish unmanned military installations in Greenland outside of the Defense Areas under accelerated governmental approval procedures. The request shall include a proposal describing the location, scope, size, and types of activities of the proposed unmanned military installation, as well as other modalities such as mitigating measures, including those necessary to take account of the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding and the 2004 Joint Declaration. Article IV(iv.) of this Agreement shall apply to the establishment, maintenance, and servicing of such unmanned military installations.
VI.
United States military access, basing and overflight
As regards United States access to the rest of the territory of Greenland (including the Territorial Waters), the following shall apply:
With a view to ensuring a secure and effective operation of the Defense Areas, the United States of America shall enjoy, for its public vessels and aircraft and its armed forces and vehicles, the right of free access to and movement between the Defense Areas through Greenland, including the Territorial Waters, by land, air and sea. This may also apply to unmanned military installations subject to agreement bythe Parties on the modalities at the time of establishment;
United States aircraft may fly over and land in any territory in Greenland, including the Territorial Waters, and United States public vessels may have undersea access to and movement within the Territorial Waters, without restriction except as mutually agreed upon by the Parties;
United States public vessels shall be given such additional access to and movement within the Territorial Waters as isagreed to by the Parties at any given time to be required by the military situation for the defense of the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent, or for other purposes as may be agreed bythe Parties.
These rights must be exercised in a manner that respects the Greenlandic society and the Greenlandic way of life, including hunting, fishing, and other traditional, cultural, historical, and other future activities, to the maximum extent possible.
The implementation of this Article will be addressed regularly at the Permanent Committee.
VII.
Security of the Defense Areas and prevention of espionage
The Parties agree that the territory in the vicinity of a Defense Area shall not be used in any manner that threatens the security of the Defense Area. In order to implement this requirement, the Parties intend to cooperate with respect to ensuring the security of the Defense Areas. The United States shall have the right to raise concerns regarding construction, or change of use in a manner that threatens a Defense Area, of any building, facility, or installation in the vicinity of the Defense Area. Upon such notification the Parties shall mutually determine what steps may be necessary to address any threat.
The Parties shall work together to counter espionage in Greenland. Relevant authorities in the Kingdom of Denmark shall keep in close contact with relevant U.S. authorities and other partners to the fullest extent necessary to implement this Article.
VIII.
Defense posture by the Kingdom of Denmark
The Kingdom of Denmark has strengthened and shall continue to strengthen its security posture in the Arctic through comprehensive, multi-domain approach encompassing land, maritime, air and space capabilities. Through enhanced presence, improved surveillance and increased cooperation and interoperability with NATO-Allies, the Kingdom of Denmark shall continue to address emerging threats and contribute to collective stability and security in the Arctic region.
IX.
Establishment of manned or unmanned military installations by third states
No state that is not a member of NATO shall be allowed to establish its own manned or unmanned military installations in Greenland nor shall they be allowed a persistent presence of military forces in Greenland, unless otherwise agreed by the Parties.
X.
Foreign direct investment and other activities
Given the threat to national security and public order posed by increased efforts by adversaries to expand influence and control in Greenland, the Parties agree that states or investors from a state that is not a member of NATO, a NATO partner, or an EU member state shall not be allowed to have (i) control, (ii) significant influence, or (iii) access to non-public information that may constitute a threat to national security or public order within Particularly Sensitive Sectors or Activities in the territory of Greenland (including the Territorial Waters), unless agreed between the Parties that the activities of such states or investors would not constitute a threat to national security or public order.
The objective shall be ensured by Greenland in close cooperation with the authorities of the Kingdom of Denmark in its application of any of its current or future investment screening laws.
Relevant authorities in the Kingdom of Denmark shall engage in close consultation with relevant United States authorities and other partners. The specific modalities for that close consultation shall be determined by the relevant authorities.
XI.
Permanent nature of this Agreement
This Agreement does not have an end date and may only be amended by mutual consent in accordance with Article XIII of the 1951 Defense Agreement.
In case Greenland exercises its right to self-determination to become independent, the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark and the Government of Greenland shall together ensure that the independent Greenlandic state will (i) agree to remain in NATO, including by applying to become a member if necessary, and (ii) affirmatively assume, as from the date of independence, all of the rights and obligations of the Kingdom of Denmark specified in this Agreement, including any implementation agreements or arrangements between the Parties, as well as the Defense Arrangements.
XII.
Entry into force
This Agreement shall enter into force on the date of a diplomatic note informing the United States of the completion of necessary parliamentary procedures by the Kingdom of Denmark together with Greenland.
Done at New York on the 22nd day of September, 2026, in triplicate in the English, Danish, and Greenlandic languages. In the event of ambiguity or conflict between the versions, the English language version shall prevail.
Annex 1
Key agreements in the Defense Arrangements include, inter alia :
Main agreement:
Agreement of 27 April 1951 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty, concerning the defense of Greenland
Additional agreements and related non-binding arrangements:
Exchange of Notes of 31 May 1968 between the Government of the United States of America and the Kingdom of Denmark supplementing the Agreement of 27 April 1951.
Memorandum of Understanding of 13 March 1991 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark (Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland) concerning the use of Sondrestrom Aviation Facility, Kulusuk Airfield and Other Matters Related to the United States Military Activities in Greenland
Memorandum of Understanding of 20 February 2003 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark (Including Greenland Home Rule Government) Concerning the Dundas Area
Agreement of 6 August 2004 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, to Amend and Supplement the Agreement of 27 April 1951, Including Relevant Subsequent Agreements Related Thereto
Joint Declaration of 6 August 2004 by the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, on Economic and Technical Cooperation
Joint Declaration of 6 August 2004 by the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, on Cooperation on the Environment in Greenland
Joint Statement of 28 October 2020 on Improved Cooperation in Greenland; Exchange of Notes of 27 October 2020; and Common Plan for U.S.-Greenland Cooperation in Support of our Understanding for Pituffik (Thule Air Base) signed 28 October 2020
Relevant NATO agreements:
North Atlantic Treaty of 4 April 1949
Agreement of 19 June 1951 between the Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty regarding the status of their forces (“NATO-SOFA”)
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK TOGETHER WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF GREENLAND
The White House
September 22, 2026
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK TOGETHER WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF GREENLAND TO AMEND AND SUPPLEMENT THE AGREEMENT OF 27 APRIL 1951 PURSUANT TO THE NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK ON THE DEFENSE OF GREENLAND (1951 DEFENSE AGREEMENT), INCLUDING ALL RELEVANT SUBSEQUENT AGREEMENTS RELATED THERETO
Preamble
The Government of the United States of America (hereinafter “the United States”) and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark (hereinafter “the Kingdom of Denmark”) together with the Government of Greenland (hereinafter “Greenland”), hereinafter referred to collectively as “the Parties” and singularly as a “Party”;
Cognizant of the rights and obligations deriving from the 1949 North Atlantic Treaty, and considering that Greenland through the Kingdom of Denmark has been a part of NATO since then;
Recalling the long history of cooperation between the Parties based on their deep respect for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, as well as the more than eighty years of close defense cooperation between them, which has contributed to strengthening the security and stability of the United States, Greenland, and the rest of the North Atlantic Treaty area;
Reaffirming the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark, and recognizing that the People of Greenland constitute a people pursuant to international law with the right to self-determination;
Noting that the procedure for Greenlandic independence is set out in Article 21 of Act no. 473 of 12 June 2009 on Greenland Self-Government;
Recognizing the Parties’ respective obligations and commitments under international law as well as national legal frameworks, including all existing agreements between the Parties;
Recognizing the need to protect the pristine environment of Greenland and reaffirming Article VI concerning Protection of the Environment in the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding, as well as the 2004 Joint Declaration;
Recognizing the economic, social, and cultural rights of the People of Greenland, including with respect to their lands and their way of life, including hunting, fishing, and other traditional, cultural, historical, future activities, and developments;
Considering that the Defense Arrangements have promoted stability and well-being in the North Atlantic Treaty area by uniting the Parties’ efforts for collective defense and preserved peace and security as well as developed their collective capacity to resist armed attack;
Recognizing the United States’ indispensable historical and ongoing contributions to the security and defense of Greenland and the rest of the North Atlantic Treaty area, including significant sacrifices and billions of dollars spent over the better part of a century, dating back to before World War II and the establishment of NATO, and the irreplaceable role the United States military plays in the defense of the territory of Greenland now and in the future;
Acknowledging the reopening of the U.S. Consulate in Nuuk and the U.S. contributions to mutual scientific and educational cooperation and exchanges, minerals cooperation, cooperation on economic development and business promotion, and cultural and local partnerships together with Greenland;
Acknowledging as well Greenland’s contribution to the Parties’ mutual security interests and its consequent sharing of the associated risks and responsibilities, and the commitment of the Parties to continuing close cooperation within NATO in ensuring North Atlantic security, as set forth in the 2004 Igaliku Agreement;
Recognizing the security challenges in the Arctic and the High North posed by adversaries’ increased military activity and growing strategic interest in the region;
Recognizing the Parties’ common goal of international peace and peaceful co-existence, and respecting the important contribution of Greenland to this goal;
Reaffirming the common goal of maximizing real, tangible, and substantial benefits to the People of Greenland from the Defense Areas;
Noting that the security situation in the Arctic is changing and that more efforts are needed to ensure security there in the future;
Recognizing the Parties’ shared interest in allowing the United States to have military access to the territory of Greenland to the extent necessary to defend the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent, including through establishment of a Golden Dome defense system; and
Wishing therefore to further amend and supplement the Defense Arrangements, so as to strengthen them and reinforce their permanent nature,
Hereby agree as follows:
I.
Objectives
This Agreement amending and supplementing the Defense Arrangements shall facilitate the ability of the Parties to take any measures necessary or appropriate to carry out expeditiously their respective and joint responsibilities in Greenland, including to defend the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent, while respecting the interests of and providing benefits for the Greenlandic society.
II.
NATO engagement
The Parties support a stronger NATO engagement in the Arctic, including as regards planning, presence, exercises, and joint intelligence gathering.
III.
Definitions
For the purposes of this Agreement:
“1949 North Atlantic Treaty” means the North Atlantic Treaty signed at Washington on April 4, 1949.
“1951 Defense Agreement” means the Agreement Pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark Concerning the Defense of Greenland, signed at Copenhagen on April 27, 1951.
“1991 Memorandum of Understanding” means the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark, including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, Concerning the Use of Sondrestrom Aviation Facility, Kulusuk Airfield and Other Matters Related to United States Military Activities in Greenland, done in Copenhagen, March 13, 1991.
“2004 Igaliku Agreement” means the Agreement between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark, including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, to Amend and Supplement the 1951 Defense Agreement, Including Relevant Subsequent Agreements Related Thereto, signed at Igaliku on August 6, 2004.
“2004 Joint Declaration” means the Joint Declaration on Cooperation on the Environment in Greenland between the Parties issued on August 6, 2004 in Igaliku.
“2020 Diplomatic Notes” means the exchange of diplomatic notes between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark concerning contracting, dated October 27, 2020.
“Defense Area” means an area in Greenland where the United States establishes and/or operates a military base consistent with the Defense Arrangements.
“Defense Arrangements” means the 1951 Defense Agreement, together with subsequent amending and supplementing agreements and related non-binding arrangements between the Parties, as set out in Annex 1.
“Greenland Self-Government Law” means the Act no. 473 of 12 June 2009 on Greenland Self-Government.
“Permanent Committee” means a committee established under the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate consultation and exchange of information on matters relating to the United States military presence in Greenland.
“Particularly Sensitive Sectors or Activities” means sectors or activities determined to be particularly sensitive, including but not limited to critical infrastructure and the extraction of resources.
“Territorial Waters” means the territorial sea around Greenland as laid down in national law by the Kingdom of Denmark in accordance with the international law of the sea as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
IV.
Defense Areas
The Parties shall make best use of the procedures set out in the Defense Arrangements, including the 1951 Defense Agreement and the 2004 Igaliku Agreement, as amended and supplemented herein, to enable the following:
i. The United States shall be allowed to modernize and expand its activities in Pituffik Space Base;
ii. The United States shall be allowed to establish an additional Defense Area at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig in accordance with modalities and technical details to be mutually agreed by the Parties;
iii. The United States may establish additional defense areas in Greenland and strengthen its military operations or facilities. Either Party may identify the need for a new Defense Area for the defense of the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent. Such Party shall provide a proposal describing the location, scope, size, and types of activities of the proposed Defense Area as well as other modalities such as mitigating measures, including those necessary to take account of the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding and the 2004 Joint Declaration. The Parties shall immediately convene to engage in consultations through the Permanent Committee to decide implementation details based on mutual agreement. If no agreement is reached within 90 days at the Permanent Committee, consultations shall escalate to the deputy minister level, followed by the minister level;
iv. The United States shall award all contracts to commercial enterprises for goods and services related to the establishment, maintenance and servicing, including, but not limited to, construction and dismantling projects, of Defense Areas in Greenland to Greenlandic sources to the maximum extent possible, taking into account the capabilities and feasibility of such sources to implement contracts. To secure contracts to Greenlandic sources, the Parties agree to update the 2020 Diplomatic Notes accordingly.
V.
Unmanned military installations
The Kingdom of Denmark together with Greenland shall review requests to establish unmanned military installations in Greenland outside of the Defense Areas under accelerated governmental approval procedures. The request shall include a proposal describing the location, scope, size, and types of activities of the proposed unmanned military installation, as well as other modalities such as mitigating measures, including those necessary to take account of the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding and the 2004 Joint Declaration. Article IV(iv.) of this Agreement shall apply to the establishment, maintenance, and servicing of such unmanned military installations.
VI.
United States military access, basing and overflight
As regards United States access to the rest of the territory of Greenland (including the Territorial Waters), the following shall apply:
With a view to ensuring a secure and effective operation of the Defense Areas, the United States of America shall enjoy, for its public vessels and aircraft and its armed forces and vehicles, the right of free access to and movement between the Defense Areas through Greenland, including the Territorial Waters, by land, air and sea. This may also apply to unmanned military installations subject to agreement bythe Parties on the modalities at the time of establishment;
United States aircraft may fly over and land in any territory in Greenland, including the Territorial Waters, and United States public vessels may have undersea access to and movement within the Territorial Waters, without restriction except as mutually agreed upon by the Parties;
United States public vessels shall be given such additional access to and movement within the Territorial Waters as isagreed to by the Parties at any given time to be required by the military situation for the defense of the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent, or for other purposes as may be agreed bythe Parties.
These rights must be exercised in a manner that respects the Greenlandic society and the Greenlandic way of life, including hunting, fishing, and other traditional, cultural, historical, and other future activities, to the maximum extent possible.
The implementation of this Article will be addressed regularly at the Permanent Committee.
VII.
Security of the Defense Areas and prevention of espionage
The Parties agree that the territory in the vicinity of a Defense Area shall not be used in any manner that threatens the security of the Defense Area. In order to implement this requirement, the Parties intend to cooperate with respect to ensuring the security of the Defense Areas. The United States shall have the right to raise concerns regarding construction, or change of use in a manner that threatens a Defense Area, of any building, facility, or installation in the vicinity of the Defense Area. Upon such notification the Parties shall mutually determine what steps may be necessary to address any threat.
The Parties shall work together to counter espionage in Greenland. Relevant authorities in the Kingdom of Denmark shall keep in close contact with relevant U.S. authorities and other partners to the fullest extent necessary to implement this Article.
VIII.
Defense posture by the Kingdom of Denmark
The Kingdom of Denmark has strengthened and shall continue to strengthen its security posture in the Arctic through comprehensive, multi-domain approach encompassing land, maritime, air and space capabilities. Through enhanced presence, improved surveillance and increased cooperation and interoperability with NATO-Allies, the Kingdom of Denmark shall continue to address emerging threats and contribute to collective stability and security in the Arctic region.
IX.
Establishment of manned or unmanned military installations by third states
No state that is not a member of NATO shall be allowed to establish its own manned or unmanned military installations in Greenland nor shall they be allowed a persistent presence of military forces in Greenland, unless otherwise agreed by the Parties.
X.
Foreign direct investment and other activities
Given the threat to national security and public order posed by increased efforts by adversaries to expand influence and control in Greenland, the Parties agree that states or investors from a state that is not a member of NATO, a NATO partner, or an EU member state shall not be allowed to have (i) control, (ii) significant influence, or (iii) access to non-public information that may constitute a threat to national security or public order within Particularly Sensitive Sectors or Activities in the territory of Greenland (including the Territorial Waters), unless agreed between the Parties that the activities of such states or investors would not constitute a threat to national security or public order.
The objective shall be ensured by Greenland in close cooperation with the authorities of the Kingdom of Denmark in its application of any of its current or future investment screening laws.
Relevant authorities in the Kingdom of Denmark shall engage in close consultation with relevant United States authorities and other partners. The specific modalities for that close consultation shall be determined by the relevant authorities.
XI.
Permanent nature of this Agreement
This Agreement does not have an end date and may only be amended by mutual consent in accordance with Article XIII of the 1951 Defense Agreement.
In case Greenland exercises its right to self-determination to become independent, the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark and the Government of Greenland shall together ensure that the independent Greenlandic state will (i) agree to remain in NATO, including by applying to become a member if necessary, and (ii) affirmatively assume, as from the date of independence, all of the rights and obligations of the Kingdom of Denmark specified in this Agreement, including any implementation agreements or arrangements between the Parties, as well as the Defense Arrangements.
XII.
Entry into force
This Agreement shall enter into force on the date of a diplomatic note informing the United States of the completion of necessary parliamentary procedures by the Kingdom of Denmark together with Greenland.
Done at New York on the 22nd day of September, 2026, in triplicate in the English, Danish, and Greenlandic languages. In the event of ambiguity or conflict between the versions, the English language version shall prevail.
Annex 1
Key agreements in the Defense Arrangements include, inter alia :
Main agreement:
Agreement of 27 April 1951 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty, concerning the defense of Greenland
Additional agreements and related non-binding arrangements:
Exchange of Notes of 31 May 1968 between the Government of the United States of America and the Kingdom of Denmark supplementing the Agreement of 27 April 1951.
Memorandum of Understanding of 13 March 1991 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark (Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland) concerning the use of Sondrestrom Aviation Facility, Kulusuk Airfield and Other Matters Related to the United States Military Activities in Greenland
Memorandum of Understanding of 20 February 2003 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark (Including Greenland Home Rule Government) Concerning the Dundas Area
Agreement of 6 August 2004 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, to Amend and Supplement the Agreement of 27 April 1951, Including Relevant Subsequent Agreements Related Thereto
Joint Declaration of 6 August 2004 by the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, on Economic and Technical Cooperation
Joint Declaration of 6 August 2004 by the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, on Cooperation on the Environment in Greenland
Joint Statement of 28 October 2020 on Improved Cooperation in Greenland; Exchange of Notes of 27 October 2020; and Common Plan for U.S.-Greenland Cooperation in Support of our Understanding for Pituffik (Thule Air Base) signed 28 October 2020
Relevant NATO agreements:
North Atlantic Treaty of 4 April 1949
Agreement of 19 June 1951 between the Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty regarding the status of their forces (“NATO-SOFA”)