The Arctic as a geopolitical hotspot

At the press conference marking the conclusion of the two-day EU-Arctic Summit in Rovaniemi, Finland, Federal Chancellor Merz reaffirmed the importance of the High North for the security of the entire European continent. In the face of Russian aggression in Europe, the partners must respond with unity and strength. However, the Arctic also offered significant economic opportunities, according to Chancellor Merz.

Russian aggression was escalating on a daily basis

Against the backdrop of Russia's growing presence in the High North, as well as daily hybrid attacks such as the recent one in Leipzig, Chancellor Merz emphasised that it was in the partners' interests to discuss Russian aggression together here in Finland. This was also evident in the Arctic, a geopolitical hotspot of great significance for European security and defence.

European partners to focus more closely on the Arctic in future

Chancellor Merz agreed with his European partners that the European Union should focus more attention on the Arctic in the future. NATO, too, had demonstrated unity and stepped up its activities in the region. The European partners demonstrated unity and strength, most recently following the hybrid incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport.

Economic opportunities in the High North

The discussions focused not only on changes in security policy but also on the region's economic opportunities. Federal Chancellor Merz described the region's critical raw materials, existing energy reserves, potential transport and maritime routes, and space capabilities as holding great promise for the future. The Chancellor described the first European rocket launch on 5 September 2026 from the Norwegian spaceport at Andøya, in which a German company was involved, as a particular success.

Continuation of discussions with other partners

Chancellor Merz reiterated that the recent discussions in Brussels should be continued and that further partners, such as Iceland, Norway, Canada and the United Kingdom, should be brought on board. This was important given that this region was so significant for the European continent and its people.

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