Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000451/2025/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 144
Mika Aaltola (PPE), Urmas Paet (Renew), Ville Niinistö (Verts/ALE)
The Arctic region faces significant political challenges. Competition between major geopolitical players, notably Russia, China, and the United States, is becoming increasingly pronounced. This situation highlights the complexities of regional geopolitics and the urgent need for the EU to re-evaluate its Arctic policy. As the EU emerges as a geopolitical actor and amid the rising tensions exemplified by recent discussions concerning Greenland, it is crucial for the EU to establish a strong presence in the Arctic.
The previous joint communication on the Arctic (JOIN(2021)0027) reflects an outdated view of Arctic exceptionalism. Given the current geopolitical landscape, it is essential to increase Europe’s engagement in the Arctic and support the concept of a ‘European Arctic’.
- 1.Given the Arctic’s strategic significance amid the rivalry between major political powers, when does the Commission intend to publish a new joint communication on the Arctic?
- 2.Will the Commission be preparing a comprehensive Arctic strategy, recognising the critical need for the EU to strengthen its presence in the Arctic?
- 3.Considering the ongoing changes, does the Commission have a plan to bring Iceland, Greenland and Norway closer to joining the EU, and if so, how?
Submitted: 3.2.2025