In connection with the Norwegian-led exercise Cold Response, a number of joint statements have been made by participating countries. On Friday, Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre held a joint press conference with Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney.
– Exercises like Cold Response are important for Norway's security and for NATO's collective security. It is crucial for our crisis preparedness and defence capability that we have the opportunity to test our equipment together and conduct joint exercises under demanding winter conditions on land, at sea, and in the air, said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre during the press conference.
Two days later, on 15 March, a Nordic-Canadian summit was also to be held in Oslo (Norway's capital). Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson also announced that he was travelling to Norway's capital to participate.
The meeting resulted in a joint statement from the participating countries, where the Prime Ministers of the Nordic countries and Canada agreed to deepen their cooperation politically, economically, and in terms of security. Furthermore, it was announced that they would meet more frequently to advance common interests. Additionally, the countries emphasised their desire to strengthen their collective defence and deterrence, particularly in the Arctic, where they support NATO's increased presence in the region.
– As Arctic states, we cooperate to enhance security and stability for all allies in this strategically important region. We are committed to NATO's efforts to strengthen the alliance's presence, deterrence, and defence in the Arctic, as well as to further develop the strong cooperation for the benefit of all allies, the joint statement reads.
Furthermore, the parties underline the importance of technology and strategic resources. They announced that cooperation would increase in areas such as AI, quantum technology, space, satellites, and digital infrastructure. At the same time, the parties also aim to secure access to critical minerals and stable supply chains.
Earlier in the autumn, NDS reported that Denmark and Canada had signed a joint declaration on enhanced cooperation in quantum technology and technology.
– Together, the Nordic countries and Canada form a strong partnership. We commit to deepening this and further developing our cooperation based on respect, trust, and shared values and interests, concludes the joint statement.