Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform my colleagues about two recent engagements where I promoted Nunavut’s strategic interests considering Arctic sovereignty and security.
It is no secret that we are facing challenging times under the current geo-political landscape. Our ties with our friends and allies will be critical in how the Arctic responds to these challenges. With 20 per cent of Canada’s land mass, Nunavut must play a significant role in Canada’s Arctic strategy.
To ensure that Nunavut’s interests are not lost in these conversations, I have been taking opportunities to engage with international partners.
On September 29, I co-hosted the Canada-Nordic Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue with Canada’s Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly in Iqaluit. The meeting brought together Foreign Ministers of Canada, Denmark, Faroe Islands, Norway and Sweden and senior Foreign Ministry officials from Greenland, Finland, and Iceland with the goal of increasing collaboration on shared priorities across the North. Ministers David Joanasie and David Akeeagok also took part in the meeting.
Together, we discussed the changing security dynamics in the Arctic and how to advance security through sustainable economic development. It was enlightening to see that our challenges and opportunities are aligned across the North.
At the meeting, I stressed that Nunavut welcomed the federal defence policy update and its potential contributions in the North. I also noted that more must be done to safeguard Arctic sovereignty and security and show Canada’s commitment to our territories.
Nordic ambassadors agreed that there was a need for greater investments in robust multi-use infrastructure that protects the North, stimulates our economies and supports the well-being of our communities.
I was also invited to take part in the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavik, Iceland. My engagement included presenting on two panels. I discussed the Memorandum of Understanding between Nunavut and Greenland in a panel focussing on Greenland’s Foreign, Security and Defense Policy. I also took part in Canadian Perspectives on Arctic Security’ panel hosted by the North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network.
While in Iceland I also took part in numerous other meetings and discussions with leaders across the globe interested in circumpolar issues.
Mr. Speaker, I know that these engagements will go a long way to ensure that Nunavut’s interests are top of mind when it comes to Arctic sovereignty and security.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.