Iceland PM Calls for Stronger Cooperation Among Mid-Sized Nations

2026-03-16 - 13:06

Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir joined Nordic and Canadian counterparts in Oslo yesterday morning, March 15th. As reported by Vísir, the leaders discussed international developments and issued a joint statement highlighting cooperation between their countries. What's the Story? Meeting in Oslo between Nordic prime ministers and Mark Carney, with a joint statement on international cooperation Participation by Kristrún Frostadóttir, addressing global political changes and cooperation among mid-sized countries Discussion of Arctic security, developments in Greenland and Europe, and wider international challenges including artificial intelligence Oslo leaders meeting Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Photo: Simon Dawson. Wikimedia Commons. Public Domain. The meeting brought together the prime ministers of Nordic states and Mark Carney. According to the statement, the discussions focused on shared values and recent shifts in global politics. Speaking after the meeting, Kristrún thanked Carney for his role in international discussions and referred to what she described as a gap in global leadership. Carney addressed issues including emerging technologies and international challenges, referencing themes from a recent speech he delivered at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Kristrún said current global developments also present opportunities for cooperation among smaller and mid-sized countries. “This is not the first time in history that change has occurred and I believe this is a strong group of countries that can show that we can do this with strength, build new relationships of investment but also opportunities and I believe that the Arctic is an important region in that context,” she said. Greenland has been making headlines recently as US Donald Trump attempts to obtain the territory. Photo: Wikimedia Commons. Public Domain. She added that Iceland is closely watching developments in nearby regions. “We’ve been concerned about Greenland, we’re concerned about the situation in Europe with regard to Ukraine, but we’re not afraid. We also see this as a way to change alliances. We’re just broadening our horizons, and I think this group, along with Canada, shows that there are great opportunities out there.” Kristrún also said security and economic developments are increasing the strategic importance of the Arctic. “I think this group shows that it is possible to show calm and consideration in times like these, that you don’t always have to have reactionary politics. I look forward to seeing something tangible come out of this.”