Arctic Council 2023-05-02
2023-05-02
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Arctic Council is an intergovernmental forum to address issues faced by the Arctic governments and people, focusing on environmental protection and sustainable development.
What recent discussions has he had with international counterparts regarding the operation of the Arctic Council?
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office officials continue to engage actively with our Arctic partners on the future operation of the Arctic Council. We look forward to working with the incoming Norwegian chairmanship of the Arctic Council from 11 May.
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Assessment & feedback
The questioner sought details about specific discussions and outcomes, but the answer only stated ongoing engagement without specifics.
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The two-year Russian presidency of the Arctic Council is ending, and Norway will take over. A sub-committee of the Environmental Audit Committee visited Svalbard to witness climate change research.
With Russia's presidency ending this month and Norway taking over, what role can the UK play in supporting vital climate change research in the Arctic? The committee visited Svalbard before Easter and observed firsthand the importance of such research.
We very much welcome the work of the sub-committee. The UK will continue to contribute expertise and research to the Arctic Council's working groups under the incoming Norwegian chairmanship, including on climate change. We also continue to support UK-based Arctic researchers studying these key issues through funding from the Natural Environment Research Council, including partners in Canada, Greenland and elsewhere in the region.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy