Minister Wawzonek and Premier Simpson call for federal investment in Northern infrastructure and Indigenous partnership to secure the Arctic

Press Release

June 25, 2025

Minister of Finance and Minister Responsible for Strategic Infrastructure, Energy, and Supply Chains Caroline Wawzonek and Premier R.J. Simpson, represented by MLA Denny Rodgers, delivered keynote remarks last week at the 2025 Arctic Development Expo in Inuvik. Both speeches emphasized a shared message: Arctic security begins with strong, sustainable Northern communities—and securing the Arctic requires urgent, coordinated investment from the Government of Canada.

Speaking to delegates from across the North and beyond, Minister Wawzonek emphasized that Canada can no longer afford to treat the North as a remote or symbolic space. “Presence matters. People matter,” she said. “If we want Canadian sovereignty in the North to be more than rhetoric, we need to make it real—on the ground, in policy, and in people’s lives.”

Premier Simpson, in remarks delivered on his behalf by MLA Rodgers, echoed that message and called for a “whole-of-society approach” to sovereignty—one that includes not only military investment, but also housing, clean energy, and critical transportation infrastructure. “Nation-building projects require people,” he said. “And people require housing, services, and opportunity.”

Both leaders highlighted the need for federal investment in dual-use infrastructure that supports both community wellbeing and national security objectives. They also underscored the importance of sustained, respectful partnership with Indigenous governments and communities as the foundation for long-term success in the North.

The Northwest Territories is ready to help lead Canada’s efforts to secure the Arctic—through collaboration, investment, and action.

For media requests, please contact:
Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
PressSecretary@gov.nt.ca

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