A Canadian federal minister, Leona Aglukkaq has become the new chair of the Arctic Council, the world’s main international forum on northern issues.
Aglukkaq, who is Canada’s Minister of Health, and also of Northern Development, took over the chairmanship of the council from Sweden’s Foreign Minister Carl Bildt at a ceremony in Kiruna, Sweden, on Wednesday (May 15).
She becomes the first Inuk to lead the Arctic Council.
“The time has come to embrace the Arctic and realize the tremendous potential and opportunities it has to offer for all of us,” said Aglukkaq. “With the help of our Arctic Council partners, we will focus on creating economic development and sustainable northern communities.”
More information:
CBC News – Leona Aglukkaq becomes first Inuk to helm Arctic Council – here
Maclean’s Magazine – Leona Aglukkaq on northern perspectives and whether the EU belongs in the Arctic Council – here
RCI – Eye on the Arctic – Inuit organization optimistic about Canada’s Arctic Council mandate (audio) – here
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