Premier R.J. Simpson Welcomes Prime Minister’s Focus on the North

Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today in response to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s upcoming visit to Iqaluit, Nunavut, as his first domestic trip as Prime Minister:

“The Prime Minister’s decision to visit the North as part of his first domestic trip underscores the importance of Arctic sovereignty and security to Canada’s national agenda. As global interest in the Arctic grows, Canada must do more than assert its presence—we must make long-term investments that build resilient Northern communities, support economic development, and reinforce our strategic position in the region.”

“Security in the Arctic cannot be separated from the well-being of the people who live here. A strong military presence is necessary, but true sovereignty requires more than boots on the ground. It demands investment in infrastructure, housing, energy security, and industries that create lasting economic opportunities for Northerners. The North cannot simply be a region Canada defends—it must be a region Canada builds.”

“For some time, territorial Premiers have stressed that securing Canada’s Arctic future requires more than military presence—it demands renewed and increased investment in the people who build and sustain Northern communities, along with the infrastructure that supports them. Nation-building projects like the Mackenzie Valley Highway and the Taltson Hydro Expansion Project are critical to unlocking economic growth, improving energy security, and strengthening connections between the North and the rest of Canada. Advancing the Slave Geological Province Corridor—linking to the Arctic Security Corridor (Grays Bay Road and Port project)—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.”

“Northerners know firsthand the realities of rising costs of living, climate-driven emergencies, and the urgent need for modern infrastructure. Addressing these challenges requires more than short-term commitments—it demands a long-term strategy that fosters sustainable economic growth and opportunity.”

“Regardless of political cycles in Ottawa, Canada’s Arctic priorities must remain consistent. Long-term commitments to the North must be sustained to drive real progress and lasting investment. Strategic investment in the North is not only essential to securing Canada’s sovereignty—it is key to strengthening our national economy, advancing reconciliation, and ensuring that Arctic and Northern communities thrive. We look forward to working with the federal government—now and in the years ahead—to translate Arctic commitments into tangible, lasting investments that benefit Northerners and all Canadians.”

For media inquiries, please contact:

Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
[email protected]