Premier of the Yukon Ranj Pillai, Premier of the Northwest Territories R.J. Simpson and Premier of Nunavut P.J. Akeeagok met this week in Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet), Nunavut for the annual Northern Premiers’ Forum.
The Northern Premiers’ Forum is a crucial platform for leaders of the three territories to convene and tackle shared challenges. This year, the meeting in Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet), Nunavut, highlighted the significance of gathering in a community outside of the territorial capital.
The leaders continued ongoing conversations about Arctic security and sovereignty, disaster preparedness and response, infrastructure and housing needs and the health and wellbeing of northerners.
Before the forum, Premiers met with Minister of National Defence Bill Blair, Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly and Minister of Northern Affairs Dan Vandal in Iqaluit. Together, the Premiers emphasized the unique context of the territories and advocated for sustained federal support and investment to safeguard the security and prosperity of northern communities and residents.
It was a pleasure to meet with territorial Premiers in Nunavut. A strong working relationship between our three governments provides the opportunity to collectively address northern priorities. I extend a warm thank you to all Nunavummiut, particularly those in Iqaluit and Mittimatalik – Pond Inlet – for welcoming us into your communities for these important discussions.
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The Northern Premiers’ Forum was created in 2003 under the Northern Cooperation Accord.
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The annual meeting is hosted by each territory, in rotation.
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Premier of Nunavut P.J. Akeeagok is the chair until December 2024.
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The Government of Yukon will take on the chair responsibilities for 2025.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
Laura.Seeley@yukon.ca
Diana Dryburgh
Communications, Executive Council Office
867-332-9283
Diana.Dryburgh@yukon.ca