Centre for Military and Strategic Studies Canada, Europe and the Defence of the Arctic: Partners or Competitors? The European Union, Canada, and the Arctic: Challenges of International Governance Rob Huebert
[email protected] Ottawa September 21 2011 Main Issues • Canada and Europe as long time Partners and allies • Canada-European Arctic relations were generally minor in past but now growing in importance • New (Renewed?) Security interest in region • Tendency to refuse to discount change – until it occurs! Emerging European-Canadian Security Issues • Relationship with Russia – Role of energy – To contain or engage • Role of NATO • Issue Areas – Hans Island – NWP Canada-Europe Transformation of the Arctic • The Arctic is a state of massive transformation – Climate Change – Resource Development – (was up to a high $140+ barrel of oil- now $86/ barrel) – Geopolitical Transformation/Globalization • How do we understand what is happening? • What is the role for the development of the new Arctic security regime and its impact on Canada-EU relations? Arrival of New Actors and New Interests in the Arctic • Issue is not “voice” but is interest • European Union – Membership on Arctic Council • China – Polar Bases: 2 ½ Antarctica; 1 Arctic – Arctic Vessels – Xue Long; 10,000 ton new research icebreaker – Interests: Climate Change; Navigation; Resources – Membership on Arctic Council New Geopolitics of the North • Russia – Renewed Assertiveness – Petrodollars • United States – Multi-lateral reluctance/emerging concern to act – International