Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday said Canada would boost its military and security presence in the Arctic, a frozen and mineral-rich expanse that is of increasing interest to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Mark Carney, the former Governor of the Bank of Canada and current UN Special Envoy on Climate Action and Finance, has announced plans to significantly increase Canada's economic and strategic presence in the Arctic. This region, rich in minerals essential for green technology like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, is becoming increasingly vital as global demand for sustainable energy solutions grows. Carney emphasized the importance of sustainable development in the Arctic, aiming to balance economic growth with environmental protection. His strategy includes enhancing infrastructure, promoting responsible mining practices, and fostering partnerships with Indigenous communities to ensure they benefit from and participate in the economic opportunities. This initiative is part of a broader effort to secure critical minerals necessary for the transition to a low-carbon economy while addressing geopolitical tensions in the Arctic, where multiple nations have overlapping claims and interests.