France FM says Iceland has ‘Nothing To Lose’ In EU Talks

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Iceland has ‘nothing to lose’ by negotiating with the European Union over potential membership, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated during a visit to Reykjavik. His comments come as the island nation prepares for a pivotal national referendum.

Icelanders will head to the polls on August 29 to decide whether to resume formal EU membership talks. The nation originally applied to join the bloc in 2009 following a severe financial collapse, but negotiations were suspended three years later.

Geopolitical concerns are heavily influencing the renewed debate, particularly as neighboring Greenland faces ongoing pressure from US President Donald Trump regarding American control over the territory. 

Icelandic Foreign Minister Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir emphasized that joining the EU could significantly bolster national security amid rising threats from Russia and Arctic instability.

Reykjavik highlighted the value of European solidarity, citing the EU's steadfast stance alongside Denmark and Greenland during recent territorial pressures.

French officials reaffirmed that resuming talks allows Iceland to explore benefits without pre-committing to final outcomes.