Canada and five Nordic nations agreed to strengthen Arctic security during a summit in Norway. BLOOMBERG
Canada and five Nordic countries pledged to strengthen cooperation in the Arctic during a summit held in Norway on Sunday. The leaders focused on protecting security, stability, and sovereignty in the northern region at a time when global tensions continue to rise.
Prime ministers from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Canada gathered for the Canada-Nordic Summit. They agreed to work closely together to maintain peace and stability across the Arctic.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre highlighted the unity among the participating nations.
“We believe these six countries are not weak countries. They are strong countries in terms of their determination and their values,” he said after the meeting.
Shared Values and Commitment to Peace
In a joint statement, the leaders stressed their commitment to protecting the Arctic region and supporting the people who live there.
They said they will work together “to ensuring that the people who live in our part of the world can prosper in peace.”
The statement also described the six nations as democracies that support international law, human rights, and the sovereignty of nations.
These shared values, leaders said, form the foundation of their partnership in the Arctic.
Visit Linked to Earlier Global Remarks
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney travelled to Norway at the invitation of Støre. The visit followed remarks Carney delivered earlier this year at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
During that speech, Carney spoke about the role of mid-sized nations in working together to respond to pressure created by growing rivalry between major powers.
His comments gained attention after threats from former U.S. president Donald Trump regarding Greenland. Trump suggested that the United States could take control of the territory, possibly by force.
Greenland remains a self-governing territory within Denmark.
Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen thanked Carney for his support during that period.
“We have had totally unacceptable pressure from the U.S. and the U.S. president. It has been very difficult for the people in Greenland to experience this.”
Frederiksen also praised the solidarity shown by Nordic nations and their partners.
Canada Signals Support for Allies
During the summit, reporters asked Carney whether Canada would help defend Greenland if another NATO ally attempted to invade.
The Canadian prime minister responded that Canada would work closely with its allies if necessary.
“Being clear that we will back that with measures as necessary as a partner,” Carney said.
He explained that Canada, the European Union, and other allies continue to support the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Carney also spoke about building stronger security protections across the Arctic and Greenland.
Plans for Stronger Arctic Defence
Canada and the Nordic countries agreed to expand cooperation on Arctic defence while increasing their contributions to NATO.
The leaders also discussed economic opportunities in the North. Carney said the countries could work together to develop natural resources such as critical minerals found in Arctic regions.
He emphasized the importance of strengthening Canada’s defence partnerships with countries beyond the United States. Currently, about 70 percent of Canada’s defence spending involves American suppliers.
Carney said Canada plans to broaden its military partnerships internationally.
Earlier this week in Yellowknife, he announced $35 billion in investments to upgrade military air bases and northern airports.
Rising Tensions Add Urgency
Recent global events added urgency to the meeting.
Leaders gathered shortly after the United States eased sanctions on countries purchasing Russian oil. The move followed American military action against Iran and aimed to stabilize oil prices.
However, some officials worry the change could increase Russia’s financial resources as the war in Ukraine continues.
Those funds could also strengthen Russia’s military capabilities in the Arctic.
The Nordic nations and Canada share concern about Russia’s presence in the region. Leaders say NATO should maintain a stronger and more consistent presence in the Arctic.
Military Exercises Demonstrate Preparedness
Just days before the summit, leaders observed a large military exercise in Bardufoss, Norway.
The Cold Response drills involved 25,000 troops stationed in Norway and 7,000 soldiers training in Finland. Forces practiced operations in harsh winter conditions.
The exercise focused on preparing allied forces to respond to potential threats in northern regions.
While many leaders consider Russia the primary security concern, Støre added that threats to democratic values and national sovereignty remain unacceptable—especially when they come from allies.
