Imagine landing in Iceland and catching a whiff of sulfur—a quirky reminder that 90% of homes here are heated by geothermal energy. 🌋 This Arctic nation is proving green transitions aren’t just possible—they’re essential. But as global leaders gather in Reykjavík for the Arctic Circle Assembly, the stakes feel higher than ever.
With tensions simmering between major powers, this year’s summit tackles a burning question: Can cooperation survive in a fractured world? 🧊 From climate threats to Indigenous rights, nearly 70 countries are debating how to protect the Arctic—a region warming four times faster than the rest of the planet.
The Arctic Council’s Cold Reality
Founded in 1996, the Arctic Council unites eight member states, including Russia and the U.S., plus observers like China and India. But since 2022’s geopolitical shakeup, collaboration has frozen. ❄️ 'Let’s not ignore why we’re not working with Russia—they attacked our neighbors,' said Germany’s ambassador to Iceland, Clarissa Duvigneau.
Science vs. Politics
Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, former Icelandic president and Arctic Circle chair, warned CGTN the world is 'close to a tipping point.' 🔥 He highlighted a paradox: During the Cold War, the Soviet Union and West cooperated more on Arctic science than today. 'Geopolitics can’t freeze out solutions,' he urged, praising ongoing U.S.-China research ties as a rare bright spot.
As Norway and Denmark take leadership roles, the summit’s message is clear: Melting ice caps won’t wait for diplomacy. Can the Arctic become a model for global unity—or another casualty of division? 🌏✨
