PM Says Iceland Not Ready for EU Membership

2026-02-26 - 10:35

Following high-level political conversations yesterday, Iceland has not begun negotiations on joining the European Union, RÚV reports. The government is not prepared to accept membership “on any terms”, Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir has said. Her comments came following a press conference with Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Poland and former President of the European Council. What's the Story? No EU accession negotiations under way, stated by Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir after press conference with Donald Tusk “not ready to join the European Union on any terms”, said by Kristrún in interview with RÚV Emphasis on resources and fishing industry in any potential talks; public reservations acknowledged Donald Tusk. Photo: European Parliament. Wikimedia Commons. Public Domain. During the press conference, Tusk stated that Iceland belongs in the European Union and that Poland would support such a move. Kristrún said his remarks demonstrated interest in Iceland within the bloc. Speaking to the country’s national broadcaster, she later highlighted Tusk’s recognition of Iceland’s distinct circumstances. “What I found more remarkable is that a man like him, who has held a high position within the European Union, is so aware that a nation like Iceland should retain its special status. It is perhaps something that the European Union as a whole is starting to think about with many countries, especially regarding countries that are further west in the continent,” she said. Kristrún stressed that accession talks have not begun and no national priorities have been formally presented. “No matter what the result of the first, or first, vote is, I will respect it. And Iceland has many opportunities regardless of whether we join the European Union or not. However, I have been very clear in all the conversations I have had with EU officials and European leaders that I myself am not ready to join the European Union on any terms.” Flags of the EU countries. Photo: Pexels. Creative Commons. She added that Icelanders have reservations linked to the country’s history and geographic position. “I am fully aware that the Icelandic people have reservations. Because of the history of this issue and because we have certain unique characteristics. We are not on the European continent.” Emphasising national interests, she said: “That we don’t go in on just any assumptions. We need to consider resources. We need to pay special attention to the fishing industry. Everyone I’ve talked to knows this.” Tusk presented the Prime Minister with Prince Polo chocolates at the close of the meeting; a confectionary that has a beloved place in the heart of Icelanders. As expected, the PM answered: “I love this Prince Polo and I can’t wait to give it to Dad!”