Carney Meets Norwegian and German Leaders at NATO Exercise Cold Response
Carney NATO Cold Response Talks Focus on Arctic Security and Alliance Strength
BARDUFOSS, Norway — Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on March 13 during NATO’s large-scale Exercise Cold Response in northern Norway.
The meeting took place as approximately 30,000 military personnel from 14 nations gathered across the High North to participate in the multinational training exercise, which is designed to strengthen NATO’s readiness in Arctic and sub-Arctic environments.
NATO Exercise Demonstrates Alliance Readiness
Exercise Cold Response involves coordinated military operations on land, at sea, and in the air, taking place across Norway’s fjords and mountainous terrain in harsh winter conditions marked by sub-zero temperatures, deep snow, and limited daylight.
The exercise aims to enhance operational readiness and cooperation among NATO allies while demonstrating the alliance’s capacity to defend its northern territories.
During the event, the leaders emphasized the strategic importance of the Arctic and the High North as geopolitical tensions increase.
Operation Cold Response.
@CanadianForces training with NATO Allies here in Norway — to defend our High North, and strengthen our sovereignty and security. pic.twitter.com/3chPd6HSjG— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) March 14, 2026
Canada’s Arctic Security Role
Prime Minister Carney highlighted Canada’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in the Arctic, underscoring the region’s growing strategic significance for global security.
Canadian officials say strengthening Arctic defence capabilities remains a key priority as climate change opens new shipping routes and geopolitical competition intensifies across the polar region.
The leaders welcomed NATO’s efforts to reinforce deterrence and defence across the alliance’s northern flank.
Continued Support for Ukraine
Discussions between the leaders also addressed broader international security concerns, including Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.
Carney, Støre, and Merz reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing the importance of achieving a just and lasting peace supported by strong international security guarantees.
The leaders reiterated their commitment to continued cooperation with NATO allies in responding to the conflict.
Concern Over Middle East Conflict
The leaders also expressed concern about the evolving conflict in the Middle East.
They agreed that diplomatic engagement remains essential to prevent further escalation and protect civilian populations in the region.
Strengthening Allied Coordination
Canada, Norway, and Germany maintain close partnerships through NATO and other international security frameworks. The meeting in Bardufoss reflects ongoing coordination among allies as global security challenges evolve.
The leaders agreed to remain in close contact following the discussions.
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