Exercising sovereignty in Canada’s Arctic key to Northern Strategy
(No. 264 - August 20, 2010 - 12:15 p.m. ET) The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today released the Statement on Canada’s Arctic Foreign Policy: Exercising Sovereignty and Promoting Canada’s Northern Strategy.
“Canada’s Arctic foreign policy statement is the key international dimension of the government’s integrated Northern Strategy, which was launched in 2009,” said Minister Cannon. “Our statement sets out for Canadians and for the international community the actions that the government is taking internationally to promote Canada’s interests in the North.”
The statement articulates Canada’s priorities with respect to sovereignty, economic and social development, environmental protection and governance in the Arctic region. Canada will continue to show strong leadership and demonstrate responsible stewardship to build a region that is responsive to Canadian interests and values.
“Interest in the Arctic has never been greater and this has critical implications for Canada,” said the Minister. “It is especially important that Canada, as a significant Arctic power, make a clear statement about our Arctic foreign policy priorities and objectives as we prepare to assume the chair of the Arctic Council in 2013.”
Canada will continue to demonstrate international leadership on sustainable resource development, environmental science and stewardship, the development of healthy and sustainable communities, and public safety in the North.
The statement underscores the important role of Northerners, including Indigenous peoples and territorial governments, in shaping Canadian foreign policy on Arctic issues.
For more information, please visit Canada and the Circumpolar World.
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Melissa Lantsman
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
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Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
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