Nordic Leaders and Canada cooperation expands on Arctic security, defence and trade
OSLO, NORWAY — The Prime Ministers of the Nordic countries and Canada met in Oslo on March 15 to reaffirm their commitment to deeper cooperation on Arctic security, defence, economic resilience, and emerging technologies amid rising global geopolitical tensions.
The summit brought together Prime Minister Mark Carney with leaders from the Nordic region to discuss collective strategies for strengthening international security, expanding economic collaboration, and supporting Ukraine in its ongoing defence against Russia’s invasion.
In a joint statement released after the meeting, the leaders emphasized that international cooperation grounded in international law, shared democratic values, and respect for sovereignty remains essential to global stability.
Arctic Security and NATO Cooperation
As Arctic nations and NATO allies, Canada and the Nordic countries underscored the strategic importance of the Arctic region and the need to strengthen security and stability in the High North.
Leaders committed to working with Indigenous and northern communities to unlock the region’s economic potential while mitigating the effects of climate change and maintaining peace and security.
They also reaffirmed their support for NATO initiatives designed to bolster defence in the region, including the alliance’s enhanced vigilance operation known as Arctic Sentry.
Military exercises such as Exercise Cold Response, Operation Nanook, and Exercise Arctic Endurance were highlighted as key initiatives that improve interoperability among allied forces operating in northern environments.
The leaders also stressed the importance of strengthening defence industrial capacity, ramping up production, and developing innovative dual-use technologies that can enhance security across the Euro-Atlantic region.
At the Canada–Nordic Summit in Oslo, we worked with Nordic Allies to deepen our collective security, especially in the North.
In a more dangerous and divided world, partnerships like this make each of our nations safer, stronger, and more prosperous. pic.twitter.com/JKeBHfbclo
— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) March 15, 2026
Continued Support for Ukraine
The summit also addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine, with Canada and the Nordic countries reaffirming their strong support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The leaders pledged continued economic, humanitarian, and military assistance to Ukraine while coordinating sanctions designed to limit Russia’s ability to finance its war effort.
They also stressed that a just and lasting peace in Ukraine must include credible and legally binding security guarantees that deter future aggression and preserve stability across Europe.
Economic Security and Trade Cooperation
Beyond defence, the leaders emphasized the importance of building resilient economies that remain open to international trade while reducing strategic dependencies.
Canada and the Nordic countries agreed to strengthen cooperation on economic security, particularly in sectors where technology and trade are increasingly used as geopolitical tools.
The countries also pledged to expand bilateral trade and investment ties, recognizing that together they represent a significant and competitive global market.
Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the rules-based international trading system and voiced support for efforts to reform and strengthen the World Trade Organization.
Collaboration on Technology and Critical Minerals
Technological cooperation was another central focus of the summit.
Canada and the Nordic countries agreed to explore deeper collaboration in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, satellite systems, and space technology.
They also committed to improving access to critical minerals and strengthening secure global supply chains, while maintaining strong environmental protections and labour standards.
Energy and Climate Cooperation
The leaders emphasized that the transition to low-carbon energy presents major economic opportunities for their countries.
Canada and the Nordic nations plan to strengthen cooperation on clean energy technologies, sustainable resource development, and secure energy supply chains.
They also reaffirmed their shared commitment to climate action and environmental protection as part of broader efforts to build competitive and sustainable economies.
A Stronger Partnership for the Future
The meeting concluded with a commitment from Canada and the Nordic countries to hold regular consultations at multiple levels of government to advance their shared priorities.
Leaders described the partnership as a powerful alliance built on mutual trust, democratic values, and common interests in security, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.
With the Arctic gaining increasing global strategic importance, both Canada and the Nordic nations signalled their intention to deepen cooperation in order to protect the region while strengthening prosperity for the people who live there.
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