November 28, 2014 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today concluded his first official visit to Iceland to discuss strengthening relations with one of Canada’s Arctic neighbours.
“As chair of the Arctic Council, Canada greatly appreciates Iceland’s support, particularly its enthusiasm and involvement on the Arctic Economic Council,” said Baird. “We are pleased that Iceland is focused on strengthening economic linkages among the Arctic states to increase development in the North.”
Baird had a productive meeting with his counterpart, Gunnar Bragi Sveinsson. The two ministers discussed responsible resource development, increased international trade and international security issues.
“Iceland and Canada continue to share priorities internationally and cooperate fully in international institutions such as NATO and the OSCE,” said Baird. “We must continue to work together to stand up to Russian aggression.”
While in Reykjavík, the Minister laid a wreath at the Commonwealth war grave at Fossvogur Cemetery, and toured the Althingi, one of the oldest parliaments in the world. He also met with Sigmundur Davíð Gunnlaugsson, Prime Minister of Iceland, Einar Kristinn Guðfinnsson, President of the Icelandic parliament, and members of the Foreign Affairs Committee.
Baird was accompanied by Senator Janis Johnson, member of the Senate Foreign Affairs and International Trade Committee and a prominent leader in the Icelandic-Canadian community.
“Our nations have strong historical and cultural links,” said Senator Johnson. “Canada has the largest diaspora of Icelanders of any country in the world, and we look forward to building on this relationship even more in the future.”
View the Minister Baird in Iceland photo gallery.
- 30 -
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
Follow us on Twitter: @CanadaFP
Like us on Facebook: Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada-DFATD
