Russia’s chairmanship of the Arctic Council will help expand relevant interaction with Canada, said Russian Ambassador in Ottawa Oleg Stepanov. 

“The Arctic has ceased to be the periphery of global politics. It is impossible to resolve the problems of this region independently. Collaborative approaches are needed to use the potential of the northern latitudes. The Canadians share such a position, and the Extreme North is therefore an important part of our bilateral dialogue,” the politician noted.

He also noted the high level of both countries’ coordinated efforts in the Arctic Council. “We are convinced that Russia’s chairmanship in this organization will contribute to the development of Russian-Canadian relevant interaction in this area. The priorities of our ‘watch’ reflect the approaches of our Canadian partners.”

“We prioritize efforts to maintain the sustainable development of the North and to promote measures for adapting its residents to climate change and improving the well-being, health and education standards, and the quality of life in the Arctic. In addition, Moscow and Ottawa agree on the need to preserve the region’s unique environment,” the Ambassador said.