Støre meets with NATO representatives in Reykjavik

NATO Archive Photo. Left to right: Jonas Gahr Støre with NATO Secretary General, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer Jan. 14, 2009. © NATO

The Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre met with NATO representatives and lawmakers on Jan. 29 in Reykjavik, Iceland to discuss security challenges that are likely to arise as the Arctic Ice melts.

“The economic interests in the Arctic are reflected in competing claims by relevant stakeholders, and resumed military presence in the area,” NATO states on its Web site.

The seminar brought together Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, NATO’s Secretary General, a number of Allied Ministers and Ambassadors, the Chairman of the Military Committee, Strategic Commanders, as well as many other decision-makers and experts from Allied countries. 

Addressing the seminar, NATO Secretary General said: “The changes caused by the progressive melting of the ice cap are of concern to many countries beyond those of the Arctic Council and NATO. Indeed, the whole of the international community stands to be affected by many of the changes that are already taking place. In this situation, NATO needs to identify where the Alliance, with its unique competencies, can add value.”

Read “Arctic thaw raises security concerns for NATO” on  CNN.

You can read Støre’s statement here: Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.