Minister for Foreign Affairs announces Government’s new Arctic Strategy in Boden
On Monday 1 June, Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard presented the Government’s new Arctic Strategy at the Defences Museum in Boden. In the new Strategy, the Government clarifies Sweden’s Arctic policy interests and priorities. Swedish Arctic policy is reinforced by defining the links between security policy, resilient communities, the economy, and the environment and climate.
The new Arctic Strategy reflects a new security situation – the most serious for Sweden since the Second World War. The security situation, climate change and economic interests are closely linked in the Arctic.
“Sweden’s role in the Arctic is a matter of both foreign and domestic policy. The new Arctic Strategy reflects the serious security situation and increased international interest in the region. For us as an Arctic state, this means a special responsibility and greater Swedish influence,” says Ms Malmer Stenergard.
Membership of NATO has led to a new role for Sweden in the region. The Alliance’s deterrence and defence in the High North is enhanced by Sweden and Finland being members. Sweden’s geographical location also enhances the security policy link between the Baltic Sea, the High North and the Arctic. It also offers increased opportunities for cooperation with other Arctic countries in NATO.
The Strategy was launched at the Defence Museum in Boden in the presence of Lotta Finstorp, Norrbotten County Governor and head of the Civil Defence Region North, and Magnus Ståhl, commander of the Northern Military Region.
On Monday 1 June, the Government presented the Strategy, in the form of a government communication, to the Riksdag for consideration.
The aim of Sweden’s Arctic policy is a peaceful and secure Arctic, with sustainable, robust and attractive communities and reduced environmental and climate impact. The Arctic Strategy comprises five focus areas: peace, security and stability; economy and trade; climate and the environment; sustainable, thriving and resilient communities; and strategic resources.
: Government of Sweden