Welcome to the TravelPod forums

[wakingdream]

The Russians want it ( they've already planted their flag up there), the U.S. wants to use it freely and Canada says we maintain sovereignty.

The Northwest Passage is a hot topic these days.

Many are saying that the strait is international.

"Canadian officials argue that their authority over the myriad channels and straits that make up the legendary route from the Atlantic to the Pacific is the best way to minimize unsafe ships and accidental spills in the pristine North."

Even the former U.S. Ambassador agrees!
"In an unusual twist last week, the former U.S. ambassador to Canada, Paul Cellucci, was quoted in Canadian newspapers as saying that he agreed with the Canadian position. "It is in the security interests of the United States that it be under the control of Canada," he said at a conference in Ottawa."

Disputing Boundaries
The Question of Sovereignty
Sovereignty Will Solve the Northwest Passage Dispute

Thoughts?

[aopaq]

The Russians want it ( they've already planted their flag up there), the U.S. wants to use it freely and Canada says we maintain sovereignty.

The Northwest Passage is a hot topic these days.

Many are saying that the strait is international.

"Canadian officials argue that their authority over the myriad channels and straits that make up the legendary route from the Atlantic to the Pacific is the best way to minimize unsafe ships and accidental spills in the pristine North."

Even the former U.S. Ambassador agrees!
"In an unusual twist last week, the former U.S. ambassador to Canada, Paul Cellucci, was quoted in Canadian newspapers as saying that he agreed with the Canadian position. "It is in the security interests of the United States that it be under the control of Canada," he said at a conference in Ottawa."

Disputing Boundaries
The Question of Sovereignty
Sovereignty Will Solve the Northwest Passage Dispute

Thoughts?

I am not convinced having Canadian authority over the Passage will do much to stop unsafe ships from travelling or prevent accidental spills and pollution from occurring. My concern is also how the increased traffic will affect marine animal species. No matter who ends up "in control" I cannot help but feel that the environment will be the biggest loser.

[wakingdream]

I cannot help but feel that the environment will be the biggest loser.

You know, the sad thing is I think you're right. Once the dispute is settled is it possible that Canada would/could enforce stricter environmental laws along the passage?

[starlagurl]

Hmmm...yeah, I think that Canada would enforce stricter rules than Russia would, definitely.

Have you seen the state of affairs that is Russia at the moment? An entire SEA has dried up because too much water was extracted from it for irrigation....