There is political consensus that the Agpalilik meteorite should be returned to Greenland.
This became clear following a meeting between Nivi Olsen, Naalakkersuisoq for Education, Culture, Sports, and the Church, and Christina Egelund, Denmark’s Minister for Research, Education, and Digitalization.
At the meeting, the parties discussed the return of the Agpalilik meteorite and reaffirmed their shared goal of bringing the meteorite back to Greenland. The technical, legal, and administrative process between the two museums (Nunatta Katersugaasivia Allagaateqarfialu and the Natural History Museum of Denmark) has already begun, and work is now continuing to clarify the necessary conditions for the return.
Naalakkersuisoq Nivi Olsen welcomes the political support:
“Agpalilik belongs in Greenland. That is why I am very pleased that there is now political consensus that the meteorite should return home. This is a matter of great cultural and historical significance for Greenland, and we are now moving forward with determination to take the legal and administrative steps necessary to bring the process to a successful conclusion.”
Christina Egelund, Minister of Research, Education, and Digitalization, states: “I
am pleased that the process is now underway in close collaboration with the two museums. I have always been convinced that together we will find a good way forward so that Agpalilik can return home to Greenland. It is a completely fair and reasonable wish that Greenlanders be able to see the meteorite in their own country. We on the Danish side will work tirelessly to ensure that Agpalilik’s final long journey is completed.”
Agpalilik is part of the Cape York meteorite and was found in North Greenland. The meteorite is currently in Denmark, and its return would be an important contribution to the effort to bring a significant part of Greenland’s natural and cultural heritage back to the country.
The meeting was marked by constructive dialogue and a shared understanding of the importance of the matter. The parties agree to continue working together on the next steps in the process.
“The most important thing is that we now have a common political direction and agreement on the goal. I look forward to continuing our collaboration so that Agpalilik can return home to Greenland,” says Nivi Olsen.
