Norway and Canada are strengthening their research cooperation through an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Norwegian Polar Institute and Polar Knowledge Canada.
The new MoU was announced during Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre’s visit to Canada this weekend. Among others, Støre met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and following the visit the two leaders issued a joint statement in which the MoU was highlighted.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney (to the left) and Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Ottawa, September 20, 2026. Photo: Kristine Nyborg / Office of the Prime Minister of Norway
In the statement, the prime ministers emphasized that research is essential to understanding the unique nature of the Arctic, a prerequisite for ensuring security and stability in the region.
Suzanne Kerr is Acting President and CEO of POLAR. Photo: Polar Knowledge Canada
“Sharing the same values”
“By signing this document, we aim at deepening our understanding of the polar regions through a closer collaboration and a strengthened relationship between our two institutions, NPI and POLAR. This will reinforce our Norwegian-Canadian bilateral Arctic and Antarctic research partnership,” says Camilla Brekke, Director of the Norwegian Polar Institute.
“As we work toward the Fifth International Polar Year, this partnership underscores Canada and Norway’s shared commitment to advancing polar science and clean energy solutions. Norway is a respected partner in this area, sharing many of Canada’s values, cold-climate expertise and unique Northern challenges. Together, POLAR and NPI are strengthening the exchange of knowledge, data and research to benefit Arctic and remote communities and support the sustainable stewardship of both poles for generations to come,” says Suzanne (Sue) Kerr, Acting President and CEO of POLAR.
About Polar Knowledge Canada (POLAR)
- A federal Canadian organization that works to advance knowledge of the Arctic and strengthen Canada in polar science and technology.
- Established in 2015, POLAR supports sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and quality of life in northern regions through research, knowledge sharing, and collaboration.
- Conducts and supports research across northern Canada, collaborates with research communities nationally and internationally, and helps ensure that scientific findings inform public policy and community development.
