Premier R.J. Simpson and Minister Caroline Wawzonek respond to the first announcement of Projects of National Interest.

Premier R.J. Simpson

“Today’s announcement marks the true start of a new federal approach to advancing projects of national interest. While no Northwest Territories projects were included in this initial tranche, the signals that Northern corridors and all-weather road infrastructure will feature in future rounds are welcomed. It was also encouraging to see the Prime Minister name the Arctic Security Corridor directly in his announcement — clear recognition of its importance to Canada’s sovereignty and to the future of the Northwest Territories. This recognition is a testament to the work of our government, in partnership with Indigenous governments, to bring national awareness to the needs and ambitions of the Northwest Territories and its people.

Our vision remains unchanged. The Mackenzie Valley Highway, the Taltson Hydro Expansion, and the Arctic Security Corridor are essential to Canada’s future. These projects are about more than the Northwest Territories — they are about building a stronger, more resilient country that can meet the challenges of climate change and related emergencies, seize the opportunities of the critical minerals economy, and uphold Canada’s sovereignty in the Arctic.

The Northwest Territories is ready. We will continue to advance these initiatives in partnership with Indigenous governments and communities, and we will continue to make the case for their recognition as projects of national interest. The unprecedented attention now being directed to the North is welcome, and we hope it leads to unprecedented investment — not only in our government’s priorities, but also in the more regionally-focused but equally important projects being advanced by Indigenous governments. At this moment of global focus on the Arctic and Canada’s place within it, every investment in the Northwest Territories is an investment in the national interest, and a contribution to building One Canadian Economy.

The Government of the Northwest Territories values its relationship with the Government of Canada and we look forward to deepening and strengthening that partnership — including through the new Major Projects Office — to realize the full potential of the Northwest Territories for the benefit of all Canadians.”

Minister Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Strategic Infrastructure, Energy and Supply Chains

“Today’s announcement marks an important step in Canada’s new approach to fast-tracking transformative projects that strengthen the country’s future. It is encouraging to hear indications that future announcements could include priorities for the Northwest Territories.

Our government remains committed to advancing the Mackenzie Valley Highway, the Taltson Hydro Expansion, and the Arctic Security Corridor. These projects are vital to closing the infrastructure gap in the Northwest Territories. They will connect communities with year-round access, reduce the cost of living, stabilize supply chains, and create new opportunities for Northerners. They will also help Canada meet its broader goals by advancing economic reconciliation, securing access to critical minerals, reducing reliance on diesel, and strengthening Arctic sovereignty.

These projects are advancing through critical environmental and regulatory stages that will position them for investment. That work is essential to ensure they reflect the values of Northerners, meet the highest ESG standards, and advance reconciliation through meaningful Indigenous equity and participation. What we need from the federal government now is twofold: a shared commitment to help move efficiently through these final stages of planning and review, and a meaningful partnership on the complex work of major project financing.

We look forward to working closely with the new Major Projects Office to ensure these opportunities are realized. That is how we will truly unlock nation-building opportunities for the benefit of the entire country. The Northwest Territories cannot be left behind — and our government will continue to do the work needed to move these projects forward.”