Together with a number of international politicians, diplomats, researchers, journalists, and business representatives, the Nordic ministers gathered in Tromsø, Northern Norway, to participate in the Arctic Frontiers conference this week, called ”Moving North”.
Almost in unison, both American and Nordic politicians called for a stronger military presence in the High North.
To High North News, the new Swedish MFA, Tobias Billström, says that they see an increased risk of an arms race in the region.
A strong faith in the Norwegian Russia competence was common among several researchers, politicians, and officials that participated in the Arctic Frontiers conference.
Arctic experts trust Norway to maneuver the transfer of the Arctic Council Chairmanship from Russia based on Norway’s long-lasting relationship with the country.
Norwegian MFA Anniken Huitfeldt says to HNN that they are planning a smooth transition and that there is some contact with Russia to make it happen.
”We will take responsibility for the continued work for low tension in the High North,” says Norway’s Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, to High North News. (Norwegian only) Läs artikel