Canada and Iceland have called for a stronger NATO role in the Arctic and North Atlantic, highlighting growing security concerns in the region. The call came during a meeting between Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Icelandic Foreign Minister Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir in Reykjavik.
According to Global Affairs Canada, the ministers discussed Arctic affairs, defence and security, shared geopolitical interests, as well as ways to expand cooperation in trade, investment and innovation.
Both sides welcomed closer security and defence cooperation under an updated memorandum of understanding signed earlier this year. They also pointed to the joint location of their diplomatic offices in Nuuk as an example of practical cooperation.
The ministers reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
They also emphasized the importance of meaningful involvement by Indigenous communities and young people in Arctic-related decision-making.
Canada and Iceland further welcomed talks on modernizing the free trade agreement between Canada and the European Free Trade Association, which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
The two countries also agreed to create a Canada-Iceland geothermal network involving governments, businesses and Indigenous partners. The initiative aims to identify opportunities for cooperation on renewable energy and clean technologies, particularly in northern and remote communities.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE