After a brief and unexpected visit to Iqaluit on Monday, Feb. 10, from federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok released a three-page statement before flying to Washington to discuss American tariffs alongside Canada's other premiers and representatives of Trump's government.
In it, Akeeagok outlines the agreed-upon policy regarding security currently in place with the federal government, projects already underway to further develop Nunavut's infrastructure and he emphasizes the need to consult Inuit and Northerners before making policy decisions or announcements.
The current Arctic security national defence policy under the Trudeau government includes the slogan "nothing about us, without us" in terms of consulting Northerners in decision-making.
"This morning, I learned about Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's Arctic platform, including a pledge to build a military base in Canada's Arctic. While I am heartened to see political attention on the Arctic, I want to remind Mr. Poilievre and his party that decisions about the North cannot occur without significant input from Northerners," said Akeeagok. "I look forward to Mr. Poilievre's explicit recognition that should he become prime minister, his plans for the Arctic will be made in partnership with Northerners to reflect our rights, needs and perspectives.
"There are many opportunities for CanadaSA国际影视传媒檚 next prime minister to partner with Nunavut on transformative projects in the Arctic," Akeeagok stated. "Nunavut has been clear about our priorities when it comes to Arctic sovereignty and security and unlocking our territorySA国际影视传媒檚 economic potential in strategic areas such as critical minerals and energy security."
When asked by Nunavut News if the Premier's Office had received prior notice of Poilievre's visit, the following response was sent:
"We were not officially alerted to the timing of the visit," said chief of strategic operations Sima Sahar Zerehi. "Premier Akeeagok is committed to working with all federal political parties and looks forward to future opportunities to engage with the Conservative leader."
