OTTAWA, ON (November 12, 2024):
Finland and Sweden have joined Norway in NATO. The Nordic nations have, therefore, become pivotal players in securing the European Arctic from the rise of globally ambitious and aggressive authoritarianism. Canada shares many of their security concerns, centred on countering Russian aggression and managing China’s growing influence in the North.
A new report from the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, in partnership with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, highlights the urgent need for Canada to step up both defence and security cooperation and economic collaboration with these northern European allies. In European North: NATO’s new northern flank, MLI Senior Fellow Alexander Dalziel stresses that if Canada works constructively with Norway, Sweden, and Finland, we will strengthen our ability to counter both China’s efforts to dominate the mining of critical minerals and Russia’s efforts to subjugate its neighbours. Serious and intelligent co-operation now may even deter a future direct confrontation between NATO and Russia in the Arctic.
Key Recommendations for Canada:
- Strengthen Arctic defence and security: The report calls on Canada to deepen its military collaboration with Finland, Sweden, and Norway. With increased threats from Russia, Canada must integrate further into NATO’s northern strategies and invest in joint defence and security initiatives. The report notes that “Nordic partners will be essential…if Canada is to fulfil its ambition to put the Arctic at the centre of its defence politics.”
- Expand partnerships to reduce critical minerals dependency on China: The European Arctic holds vast deposits of critical minerals essential for technology and energy security. Canada must collaborate with these Nordic nations in mining and processing these resources to reduce dependence on China.
- Support transatlantic solidarity: Canada’s involvement in Arctic security is crucial for maintaining a strong transatlantic partnership. The report warns that Canada cannot afford to take a passive role. Our allies, most significantly the United States, are waiting for Canada to step up. Cooperation with these three countries is one way to show we are doing just that.
As tensions escalate with Russia, Canada’s active participation in the Arctic is not only vital but overdue. The European Arctic is now one of the likeliest places for a Russia-NATO land conflict to occur. Immediate action is needed to secure Canada’s interests in peace and prosperity and ensure long-term stability in northern Europe, the North Atlantic and the Arctic. “The world cannot afford to have Canada on the sidelines,” warns Dalziel.
To learn more, read the full paper here:
Alexander Dalziel is an MLI senior fellow with over 20 years of experience in Canada’s national security community. Previously, he held positions with the Privy Council Office, Canada School of Public Service, Department of National Defence, and Canada Border Services Agency.
For further information, media are invited to contact:
Dagny Pawlak-Loerchner
Senior Communications Officer
(613) 482-8327 x113
Dagny.pawlak-loerchner@macdonaldlaurier.ca
