Canada joins framework nations of NATO Multinational Division North

On Wednesday, July 8, during the NATO Summit in Ankara, Minister of Defence Raivis Melnis, alongside Danish Minister of Defence Jeppe Bruus Christensen and Canadian Minister of National Defence David McGuinty, agreed on closer cooperation to strengthen the Alliance's eastern flank. Canada officially confirmed its entry alongside Denmark and Latvia, becoming the third framework nation of NATO Multinational Division North.

This step will enhance the division's capabilities to ensure effective command and control and provide support to allied forces in the region. It also logically complements Canada’s existing leading role and contribution in commanding the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia, which is directly subordinate to Division North within the Alliance’s chain of command.

"Canada joining Multinational Division North as a framework nation is a powerful testament to our allies' unwavering solidarity and long-term commitment to the Baltic region. By uniting the forces of Latvia, Denmark, and Canada, we are not only strengthening the command and control chain but also sending a clear signal regarding the Alliance’s readiness and capability to defend every single centimeter of NATO territory," emphasizes Minister of Defence Raivis Melnis.

In response to russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, NATO allies decided at the 2022 Madrid Summit to reinforce the military presence on the Alliance's eastern flank. Due to the long-term threat posed by russia, NATO Multinational Division North plays an increasingly vital role in maintaining this posture.

As the framework nation for the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia, Canada cooperates with the Latvian National Armed Forces and allies from 13 other nations.

Information prepared by:
MoD Military Public Affairs Department
Media Relations Section
Phone: 67335129
E-mail: prese@mod.gov.lv