Arctic Circle Assembly 2026: geopolitics, defence and business in Reykjavík

This Year’s Circle Assembly 2026:

The Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavik

Reykjavik (High North News): This year’s focus at the annually Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavik is USA, Greenland, Canada, China and EU with a side of science, defense and business.

The Arctic Circle Assembly begins on October 8 at its regular venue, the Harpa concert hall in Reykjavík. The conference runs until October 10, with side events taking place both the day before and the day after. This year’s main theme? The Arctic’s new geopolitical significance, viewed from the perspectives of the USA, Greenland, Canada, China, and the EU. Served with a side of science, defense and Business.

Viewed from the Norwegian Arctic, however, the geopolitical significance of the Arctic is no longer news.

The Arctic Circle Assembly is the largest annual international gathering focused on the Arctic. According to a press release from the organizers, the Arctic Circle will bring together over 2,000 participants from more than 70 countries, including heads of state and government, ministers, business leaders, researchers, officials, experts, and indigenous representatives.

The discussions on the main stage on the opening day will be led by Canada’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Anita Anand, Greenland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Múte B. Egede and EU Commissioner Jozef Síkela.

Alaska and China

US actions and objectives in the Arctic will be on the agenda, led by Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy (R), with a particular focus on defense and energy. Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski (R) and China’s foreign policy representative, Fu Ying, will also appear on stage.

17 January 2025, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone assumed the role of Chair of the NATO Military Committee, receiving the gavel from his predecessor, Admiral Rob Bauer. Last year was his first time at the Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavik. Now he is back.
Trine Jonassen

Ministers and senior officials from India, Pakistan, Turkey, Singapore, the UK, Norway, and other countries will also participate. Business leaders, researchers, defense and security experts, and leaders from indigenous communities will take part in over 200 sessions featuring more than 700 speakers.

The dramatic dangers potentially resulting from the collapse of the AMOC ocean system will be discussed, and a dialogue on humanity and artificial intelligence is also on the agenda.

Defense and security

NATO is also in the house. The Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, will speak and participate with other defense officials and security experts in different events.

Additional dialogues will be devoted to the need for science diplomacy in times of growing geopolitical tensions. This year, a business forum will take place during the Assembly dedicated to investment opportunities in the Arctic with emphasis on Greenland, the Northern provinces of Canada, Iceland and other Arctic regions.

The forum will also touch on energy, infrastructure, mining, shipping, dual-use defense structure, together with blue economy and tourism.

High North News will be back with more from the Assembly.