EU sets out a new strategy for the Arctic

The European Commission and the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy today presented a new strategy for the Arctic region. The strategy sets out a new framework for political cooperation with like-minded partners, built around people, security, climate and prosperity. It has four priorities: strengthening security and resilience, responding to climate change in the Arctic, prosperity, and opportunities for Arctic people and communities. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: "The Arctic is Europe's 'northern neighbourhood' -- close, connected and essential to our future. And the region is going through change. New shipping routes and resources are fuelling strategic competition. With our new strategy, we are investing in stronger security, resilient infrastructure and economic opportunities. All of this will benefit the people for whom the Arctic is 'home', but also our shared space." The EU is part of the Arctic: over half a million EU citizens live there. With Denmark, Finland and Sweden being EU Member States in the Arctic region, and close ties with Norway, Iceland, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States, developments in the Arctic directly affect Europe's security, climate and prosperity.