Premier R.J. Simpson is applauding new Prime Minister Mark Carney for his decision to visit the North as part of his first domestic trip.
Carney is scheduled to touch down in Iqaluit on Tuesday.
Simpson said it underscores Arctic sovereignty and security as important parts of CanadaSA国际影视传媒檚 national agenda.
"As global interest in the Arctic grows, Canada must do more than assert its presence SA国际影视传媒� we must make long-term investments that build resilient Northern communities, support economic development and reinforce our strategic position in the region," said Simpson in a news release issued on March 17.
For some time now, Simpson said territorial premiers have been stressing renewed and increased investment in people who uphold Northern communities. He also emphasized the need for infrastructure, housing, energy security and industries that create lasting economic opportunities for Northerners.
"The North cannot simply be a region Canada defends SA国际影视传媒� it must be a region Canada builds," said Simpson.
The NWT premier also cited the Mackenzie Valley Highway and the Taltson Hydro Expansion Project as two nation-building initiatives.
"Advancing the Slave Geological Province Corridor SA国际影视传媒� linking to the Arctic Security Corridor (Grays Bay road and port project) SA国际影视传媒� presents a strategic opportunity to integrate the Arctic into the North American road network, strengthen supply chains and expand access to global markets in partnership with Indigenous governments in the NWT," Simpson added.
Carney was sworn in as prime minister on March 14, after being elected Liberal leader. Simpson said he looks forward to working with the federal government to turn Arctic commitments into real investments that benefit Northerners and Canadians.
