Opening the meeting in Warsaw, Deputy Minister Artur Harazim highlighted the Arctic’s ever-increasing importance in the current geopolitical situation. He also pointed out that the processes taking place in the Far North affect other regions of the world. He noted that Poland has significant research potential allowing it to support efforts to better protect the natural environment of the Arctic.

The meeting was co-chaired by Arctic Ambassador Kenneth Høegh of Greenland, who presented the Danish chairship’s activities to date, whose priorities include sustainable development of the Arctic and support for the people living in the Far North.

The participants also listened to a presentation by Ambassador for Arctic Affairs Helen Eduards from Sweden, which will take over the chairship of the Arctic Council in May 2027.

Observers representing non-Arctic states and various organisations described their involvement in the activities of the Arctic Council working groups focusing on, for example, emergency situations, conservation of Arctic flora and fauna, and the protection of the Arctic marine environment. The participants were also presented with the latest information on investment in infrastructure for the study of Arctic regions.

***

The Arctic Council was established by the Ottawa Declaration in 1996. Poland was one of the first countries to be granted an observer status in 1998. This year’s meeting brought together over 80 participants.