Mark Carney Reaffirms Canada’s Arctic Sovereignty in Meeting with Premier Akeeagok

IQALUIT – Canada’s Arctic sovereignty and economic development took center stage as newly sworn-in federal leader Mark Carney met with Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok in Iqaluit during his first week in office.

Carney emphasized Canada’s status as an Arctic nation, stressing the need for a strong presence in the North. The meeting underscored commitments to increasing infrastructure investment, expanding port capacity, and driving energy projects that will create jobs and boost economic opportunities in Nunavut and across the Arctic region.

Security concerns were also a key focus, with Carney and Akeeagok agreeing on the urgency of enhancing Canada’s Arctic defences. With growing geopolitical threats in the region, Carney expressed support for accelerating defence spending and expanding the Canadian Armed Forces’ presence in the North.

The discussions signal a renewed push for Arctic sovereignty and economic development, as Canada faces increasing international interest in the region’s strategic and resource-rich landscape.

Canada is an Arctic nation — and we can never take our Northern sovereignty and security for granted. That’s why meeting with Premier Akeeagok in Iqaluit was a priority for my first week in office.

Together, we’re going to build the economy across the region — with more homes,… pic.twitter.com/kU30wdNvFO

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) March 18, 2025

Expanding Economic Opportunities in the North

Carney outlined plans to drive economic growth by supporting housing initiatives, improving port infrastructure, and advancing energy projects. These measures aim to create more jobs and strengthen Nunavut’s role in Canada’s broader economic framework.

The commitment comes amid ongoing challenges in the North, where high construction costs and logistical barriers have long hindered development. With federal backing, the hope is to address these hurdles and ensure sustainable growth for the region.

Strengthening Arctic Defence and Sovereignty

The discussion between Carney and Akeeagok also highlighted the importance of military investment in Canada’s Arctic. As global interest in the Arctic intensifies, there have been calls for Canada to reinforce its presence to deter potential security threats.

Carney and Akeeagok’s agreement to accelerate defence spending aligns with growing concerns over Arctic security, as climate change makes previously inaccessible routes and resources more available to international actors.

With Canada’s North playing a crucial role in national security, Carney’s early visit signals a strong federal commitment to ensuring both economic prosperity and a robust defence strategy in the Arctic.

Next Steps

While details on specific initiatives remain forthcoming, Carney’s meeting with Akeeagok marks a significant step toward increased investment and military presence in Canada’s North. As policies develop, Nunavut’s role in national economic and defence strategies will likely continue to expand.

GTA Today will provide updates as further developments unfold.