The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will be in Oslo, Norway, from May 31 to June 1, 2023, to attend an informal meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs. Minister Joly will also participate in a ceremony to honour the victims of the July 22, 2011, acts of terrorism on Utøya Island, Norway.
As Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine continues, NATO Allies will meet to discuss further strengthening political and practical support for Ukraine. Minister Joly will highlight Canada's unwavering commitment to Ukraine while it defends its sovereignty and territorial integrity. She will also underscore the importance of continuing a coordinated approach with NATO Allies and partners to bolster Ukraine's defence and security capabilities.
During the meeting, Minister Joly will also highlight the importance of finalizing Sweden's accession to the Alliance without delay. Canada strongly supports Sweden's membership in NATO, which will strengthen the Alliance and significantly benefit Euro-Atlantic security. The Minister will continue to emphasize Canada's support to Sweden, including against any threats to its security.
As Allies prepare for the July 2023 NATO Leaders' Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, foreign ministers will also review the alliance's priorities and outline key deliverables and solutions to address current and emerging security issues. These discussions will help inform the work of NATO Allies at the upcoming summit.
