Whitehorse, YT – Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai calls the new Canadian Arctic Foreign Policy, which includes the appointment of an Arctic Ambassador, the establishment of consulates in Alaska and Greenland, and ongoing negotiations with the U.S. over the Beaufort Sea, an “important milestone” in strengthening Arctic sovereignty.
The plan, announced by Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, aims to strengthen Canadian sovereignty by responding to the region’s evolving geopolitical, security and climate challenges.
“We are in a tough world, and we need to be tough in our response,” said Joly in a statement. “Competition is growing across the globe, and the Arctic is not immune.”
The new policy states that the North American Arctic is “no longer free from tension,” especially following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Premier Pillai expressed strong support for the policy, emphasizing its potential to strengthen east-west trade and enhance cooperation between northern territories and Indigenous leaders.
“It is essential that those who live and work in the North have a seat at the table and that are empowered to shape the decisions that affect our region and our lives,” said Pillai in a statement.
Pillai emphasized the need for continued federal investment in dual-use infrastructure to support northern communities.
