Arctic Economic Council Celebrates 10 Years
Today Arctic Economic Council celebrates its 10th anniversary. It was on the 2nd of September a decade ago in Iqaluit, Nunavut in Canada that the Arctic Council recognised the need for a dialogue with the business sector to “ promote dynamic and sustainable Arctic economies and best practices”. Since then the AEC has contributed to a sustainable development of the Arctic region, ensuring thriving communities, and continues to be the sole voice of the private sector in the region.
“AEC is an important partner to the Arctic Council and has been instrumental in driving responsible economic development while upholding the values of sustainability and cooperation,” says Ambassador Morten Høglund, Chair of the Senior Arctic Officials.
Today AEC is an independent business organisation. Its membership includes more than 30 companies and organisations, including indigenous organisations, operating across the region.
“I know AEC both as an employee and now as chair. Over the past decade, AEC has become the primal voice of the business community and a steadfast advocate for sustainable development in the northern regions. As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we take pride in the progress we’ve made, supporting enterprises that drive innovation and prosperity”, says Inger Johnsen, Chair of the AEC Executive Committee and Head of Communications at Troms Kraft.
AEC conducts policy advocacy to promote the best framework conditions for companies. It facilitates networking among its members in creating private-public partnerships. Finally, AEC communicates opportunities in the Arctic to the general public living in and outside the Arctic. This involves conveying the diverse economic potential and shaping the image of the region as a provider of innovative technological solutions for the rest of the world.
“AEC has headquartered in the Arctic capital of Tromsø for the past 10 years, playing a key role in promoting sustainable economic development throughout the North. This effort is strongly supported by Tromsø Municipality, ” says Gunnar Wilhelmsen, Mayor of Tromsø.
“As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we take pride in the progress we’ve made. However, the world is very different from when we were created, and we must continue to evolve the organization to ensure it remains fit for the coming decade,” Mads Qvist Frederiksen, the AEC Executive Director emphasized.
