My view of the Russian problem—and it is a problem, especially when it comes to stewardship—is that there is so much that needs to be done that Canada alone is not going to be able to make a basic difference. I think the seven other Arctic countries should get together. Above all, the United States should be persuaded to approach the Russians for a new beginning in the Arctic, a new strategic understanding. We can't do this alone. We need to sway the United States if we can, and I think it's up to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Prime Minister to see to it that our ideas about the need for a U.S. initiative are brought to Washington and maybe right to the attention of the President.
On October 6th, 2009. See this statement in context.