Arctic Security Takes Center Stage as Nordic and Canadian Leaders Meet
Oslo, Norway – Leaders from Canada and the five Nordic nations convened in Oslo on Sunday, March 15, 2026, to address growing security concerns in the Arctic and strengthen cooperation on a range of strategic issues. The meeting, hosted by Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, follows a major NATO military exercise in northern Norway and comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
Strengthening Arctic Security and Defense Cooperation
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to Arctic security, emphasizing the demand to ensure peace and stability in the region. They underscored their dedication to supporting NATO’s efforts to bolster its presence, deterrence, and defense capabilities in the Arctic . Discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in several key areas, including the defense industry, defense skills, response to hybrid threats, infrastructure, and interoperable multipurpose technology .
Expanding Strategic Partnerships
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating that working with the Nordic countries is “at the center of Canada’s strategic interests” . The leaders also discussed strengthening their strategic economies and resilience, and safeguarding critical supply chains. A joint statement outlined a new partnership focused on space-based technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and critical minerals .
Addressing Global Challenges
Beyond Arctic security, the leaders addressed broader global challenges, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Several prime ministers emphasized the importance of continuing support for Ukraine, even as attention is also focused on other global hotspots, such as the Middle East . They also discussed mobilizing financing to strengthen defense production and supply chains, including through the Defence, Security, and Resilience Bank .
Concerns Over U.S. Pressure on Greenland
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen voiced concerns over pressure from the United States, specifically referencing recent statements from the Trump administration regarding potential control of Greenland. She described the pressure as “unacceptable” . Norwegian Prime Minister Støre echoed these sentiments, emphasizing shared values with Nordic and Canadian allies .
The Role of “Middle Powers”
Prime Minister Carney championed increased cooperation among “middle powers” – nations that wield significant international influence despite not being major global powers. Leaders agreed on the need for proactive and forward-thinking collaboration to address emerging challenges and fill gaps in global leadership . Iceland’s Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir suggested this shift presents opportunities for new alliances and expanded cooperation in both political and business spheres .
Bilateral Agreements and Military Exercises
The summit builds on existing cooperation between Norway and Canada, including a military cooperation agreement and collaboration between their coastguards signed in 2023 . Prior to the summit, Prime Minister Carney visited the Cold Response military exercise in northern Norway, alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, observing Canadian, German, and Norwegian soldiers . Canada also recently presented a plan to strengthen its military commitment in the Arctic, including new bases and infrastructure .
This was the first official visit to Norway by a Canadian Prime Minister since 1980 .