Statement from Premier Pillai on Canada’s Arctic Foreign Policy

 Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

"A strong and secure North is critical to a strong and secure Canada.

“The federal government’s announcement this morning of Canada’s Arctic Foreign Policy marks an important milestone in the partnerships between federal, provincial and territorial, and First Nations, Métis, and Inuit governments and organizations.

“Canada’s Arctic Foreign Policy provides opportunities for the Yukon to continue to further develop the leadership role the territories play in the country. The announcement of a new Arctic ambassador and new Canadian consulates in Alaska and Greenland provide northern territories and Indigenous governments and organizations with a unique opportunity to strengthen east-west trade ties, a longstanding priority of the Government of Yukon.

“I am pleased that Canada’s Arctic Foreign Policy recognizes and builds on our government’s efforts to further strengthen our partnership with Alaska, act as a national voice on issues related to Northern defence and security, seek funding opportunities for the construction and maintenance of dual-use infrastructure that will benefit our communities and residents, and deepen the Yukon’s relationship with the Canadian Armed Forces.

“I continue to encourage federal partners to demonstrate their commitment to this policy by making investments in dual-use infrastructure like roads, bridges, housing, energy infrastructure and through the strengthening of supply chains across the North. This is particularly important as we see geopolitical and economic shifts occurring around the globe.

“It is essential that those who live and work in the North have a seat at the table and that are empowered to shape the decisions that affect our region and our lives.”