NEWS Umeå University recently hosted the Canadian Ambassador to Sweden, Jason LaTorre, for a presentation on Canada’s newly launched Arctic Foreign Policy (AFP). The event held on 6 February 2025 gathered Arctic researchers, university leadership, and representatives from multiple research centres to discuss shared challenges and explore collaboration opportunities between Canada and Sweden.
Canada’s new AFP prioritises sustainable development, partnerships with Indigenous communities, and strengthened international cooperation to address the impacts of climate change. Given Umeå University’s strong profile in Arctic research and its active role in global Arctic networks such as the European Polar Board (EPB), The Arctic Six, and the University of the Arctic (UArctic), the institution was a natural choice for the Ambassador’s visit.
“Canada’s new Arctic Foreign Policy aligns closely with challenges across the Arctic, including Sweden. International collaboration is essential to tackling shared priorities, from climate resilience and security to sustainable community development,” says Keith Larson, Director of the Arctic Centre at Umeå University.
The event brought together a diverse group of researchers and policymakers, including Peter Sköld, Advisor on Arctic issues at Umeå University, and Maria Grigoratou, Executive Secretary for the EPB, who has been based at the university since January.
The Ambassador’s visit highlights the importance of international partnerships.
Ambassador LaTorre’s presentation emphasised the potential for deepened cooperation between Canada and Sweden in Arctic research, education, and policy development. Discussions also addressed the shared responsibilities of Arctic nations in tackling urgent issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and the sustainable development of Arctic communities.
“The Ambassador’s visit highlights the importance of international partnerships. His presentation opens up new opportunities for collaboration between Umeå University and Canadian institutions, allowing us to advance research and develop solutions to the challenges facing the Arctic,” says Peter Sköld.
The visit reaffirmed Umeå University’s position as a key player in Arctic research and policy discussions. As Sweden’s Arctic University, Umeå remains committed to fostering international dialogue and strengthening partnerships that contribute to sustainable development in the Arctic region.
With the challenges in the Arctic requiring urgent attention, events like these serve as catalysts for meaningful cooperation. As Canada and Sweden continue to champion sustainability and Indigenous engagement in the Arctic, their collaboration is set to play a vital role in shaping the region’s future.