ETM Appoints Former Danish Foreign Minister and Ambassador to Advisory Board

Strategic Appointments Signal New Phase for ETM

Energy Transition Minerals Ltd (ASX – ETM) has taken a decisive step to reinforce its rare earths development strategy in Greenland by appointing two highly respected former Danish diplomats to its newly formed Advisory Board. Jeppe Kofod, Denmark’s former Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Friis Arne Petersen, a seasoned diplomat with decades of experience, bring a wealth of geopolitical and diplomatic expertise to ETM’s flagship Kvanefjeld Rare Earths Project.

The Kvanefjeld project, one of the world’s largest undeveloped rare earth deposits, is critical to global supply chains for green technologies. However, it faces complex regulatory and political hurdles, including ongoing arbitration proceedings in Copenhagen and legal challenges in Greenland and Denmark. These appointments appear designed to navigate these challenges with greater finesse and build stronger stakeholder relationships.

Balancing Local Interests and Global Ambitions

Mr. Kofod’s background in European policy, sustainable development, and environmental diplomacy complements Mr. Petersen’s deep understanding of Greenlandic affairs and international relations, having served as Denmark’s ambassador to major global powers including the United States, China, and Germany. Their combined experience is expected to help ETM foster trust and transparency with local communities and governments, a crucial factor given the project’s sensitivity and the need for social license to operate.

ETM’s Managing Director Daniel Mamadou emphasized that these appointments underscore the company’s commitment to a development approach that respects local concerns while aligning with international standards. He highlighted recent positive developments in arbitration that bolster ETM’s confidence in advancing the project, which has been stalled despite its significant potential economic and strategic value.

Looking Ahead – Expanding Advisory Expertise

The newly established Advisory Board will not only provide strategic guidance but also support ETM’s engagement with Greenlandic and Danish stakeholders. The company has indicated that further appointments are forthcoming, including representatives from the United States, signaling an intention to broaden its international advisory base and strengthen geopolitical ties.

As the global demand for rare earth elements intensifies, driven by the green energy transition, the ability to responsibly develop projects like Kvanefjeld could position ETM as a key player in critical minerals supply. However, the path forward remains contingent on resolving legal disputes and securing broad-based support.