Despite tensions between Western countries and Russia, there has been some limited cooperation in the Arctic region. The Arctic Council, which includes Norway and Russia among its members, has managed to maintain a level of collaboration despite the chill in ties.
The Arctic Council serves as a platform for discussing issues related to the Arctic region, including environmental protection and sustainable development. Norway and Russia, despite their differences on various geopolitical issues, have found common ground in addressing shared concerns in the Arctic.
Both Norway and Russia have a vested interest in the Arctic due to its strategic importance and abundance of natural resources. The region is becoming increasingly accessible due to climate change, leading to competition over territorial claims and resource exploitation.
While tensions between Western countries and Russia persist in other areas, the Arctic Council has provided a space for dialogue and cooperation. This limited cooperation demonstrates that despite broader geopolitical challenges, countries can still work together on specific issues of mutual interest.
As the Arctic continues to attract global attention, the cooperation between Norway and Russia within the Arctic Council serves as a model for managing differences and finding common ground in a complex geopolitical landscape.