Arctic emergency response tops Goose Bay defence talks

Gen. Walter Natynczyk speaks in Iqaluit at the opening of Operation Nanook in 2008. Four months ago, Natynczyk, Canada’s top soldier, began working on a meeting of top military leaders from Arctic Council countries. (FILE PHOTO)

Defence chiefs from eight Arctic nations agreed April 13 in Goose Bay, Labrador, to co-operate more closely on dealing with disasters and search-and-rescue operations in the Arctic.

“I am very pleased with the discussions amongst the eight chiefs of defence just completed in Goose Bay. This is the first time the northern chiefs of defence have had the opportunity to meet, as a forum, to discuss issues unique to our respective regions. We were able to gain an understanding of the unique challenges each faces with regards to emergency response and for support to our civilian authorities,” said General Natynczyk.

“During our short time together, I believe we in the Canadian Forces enhanced our military-to-military relationships with our northern neighbours. The meeting was a good first step to enhancing communications and relationships, and to building on cooperative efforts in the North.”

At the two-day meeting were chiefs of defence and other defence representatives from Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the United States.

Topics discussed included sharing of knowledge and expertise in managing the challenges posed by the Arctic’s geography, climate and distances.

Those at the discussions also met with local community leaders and Canadian Rangers.

The meeting took place as Nunalivut 2012 ramps up in and around Resolute Bay.

More than 150 soldiers, divers and Canadian Rangers are participating in the Canadian military’s annual spring sovereignty operation, which started April 10 and ends May 1.