The new security and defense agreement between Greenland, Denmark, and the United States may lead to increased activity in northeastern Greenland and have an impact on development in and around Ittoqqortoormiit.
The agreement states that Mestersvig will be one of the areas where the military presence is to be strengthened. Mestersvig is located in the National Park in Northeast Greenland and is therefore not part of the Sermersooq Municipal Authority.
Although Mestersvig is located outside the municipal boundary, the Sermersooq Municipal Authority expects that the increased activity in Northeast Greenland may also have an impact on Ittoqqortoormiit.
– Mestersvig is not part of the Sermersooq Municipality, but Ittoqqortoormiit is the nearest town, so we are naturally following developments very closely. As activity in the area increases, we also expect that this will be felt in various ways in Ittoqqortoormiit. This applies not least to the need for modern and robust infrastructure, says Mayor Avaaraq Olsen.
A new airport has already been agreed upon
This development comes at a time when a decision has already been made to make a significant investment in the infrastructure at Ittoqqortoormiit.
In connection with Ittoqqortoormiit’s 100th anniversary, it was announced that a new airport will be built near Ittoqqortoormiit. A framework agreement has already been signed between Naalakkersuisut and the Danish government, which includes plans for a new airport near the town.
The new airport is intended to eventually replace the current airport in Nerlerit Inaat, also known as Konstabel Pynt. Today, Nerlerit Inaat serves as the main air link to Ittoqqortoormiit, from where passengers are transported to the town by helicopter.
– It is important to emphasize that an agreement regarding the airport is already in place. Naalakkersuisut has begun work on implementing it, even though there is not yet a specific timeline. Together with the new security and defense agreement, this means we can expect significant activity in this part of Greenland in the coming years, says Avaaraq Olsen.
The investments should also benefit the local community
For Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq, it is important that investments in security, defense, and infrastructure also create lasting value for the local community.
A new airport could improve access to Ittoqqortoormiit and create new opportunities for residents, businesses, and the town’s future development.
– For many years, Ittoqqortoormiit has faced some very unique infrastructure challenges. That is why I look forward to seeing the agreement that has already been reached regarding the airport come to fruition. If the increased activity in Northeast Greenland can also help strengthen the infrastructure and create opportunities that benefit the local community, it will be positive for Ittoqqortoormiit, says Avaaraq Olsen.
