Pandas for Danish zoo come with strings attached

Now that Denmark has accepted a Chinese gift of two pandas, they will be expected to give something in return. Greenland’s minerals are at the top of their wish list.

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Photo: Copenhagen Zoo

China’s gift of two giant pandas to the Copenhagen Zoo last month might have been more than just a friendly gesture.

“They aren’t doing this out of the goodness of their hearts,” said Mette Holm, a long-time Danish China watcher. “This is about Greenland. The Chinese want to get their hands on raw materials and rare earths. China is looking out for its Arctic interests.”

Read more: Arctic Journal

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