Broad Support for Nordic–Canadian Cooperation

During the theme session in Oslo, the Centre Group presented its proposal to strengthen cooperation between the Nordic countries and Canada. The proposal received broad support in the Nordic Council during the first reading held at the Norwegian Storting.

In recent years, the Arctic has gained increased geopolitical significance. At the same time, the effectiveness of the Arctic Council has weakened after one of its member states, Russia, was in practice excluded from cooperation. The region is also facing major civil and security-related challenges. These are some of the reasons why the Centre Group has proposed that the Nordic countries work towards closer cooperation with Canada.

At the Nordic Council’s theme session in Oslo, the Centre Group was given the opportunity to present its proposal in plenary. The proposal received strong support from the other party groups. The proposal was presented by Johan Dahl:

– The Nordic countries have always looked to our neighbours, but in a time of global uncertainty it is crucial that we look even more to the west – to Canada. We do not only share borders in the Arctic; we also share fundamental values. Our mutual democratic understanding, our focus on equality, and our cultural ties make Canada a natural and close ally.

According to the Centre Group, these similarities between the Nordic countries and Canada form a key foundation for closer cooperation.

– When we speak with Canada, we are speaking with a partner who understands our societal model and our way of viewing the world.

The proposal will now be prepared by the Presidium of the Nordic Council before being decided upon at a future session.

Photo: Johan Dahl at the rostrum of the Storting.