Minister Duncan's speech referenced UArctic in the context of Canada's strong role in the Arctic Council, and signalled that they would take strong leadership during their upcoming period of chairing the Council from 2013.

Duncan stated in his speech:
"We will continue our work with other partners too, including the International Maritime Organization, the Standing Committee of parliamentarians for the Arctic Region, the Northern Forum and the University of the Arctic. This spirit of partnership is also reflected in our work with countries like Russia, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Iceland to advance shared interests in the areas of resource development, trade, transportation and scientific cooperation." [source]

The University of the Arctic welcomes Minister Duncan's support, and looks forward to continuing to work with the Canadian government to improve higher education opportunities for northern Canadians.

Photo credit: Jane George, Nunatsiaq News