Minister for Foreign Affairs presents Annual Report on International Affairs

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, delivered her report on foreign and international affairs to Alþingi last week, highlighting key developments and special initiatives from the past year. Following her introductory remarks parliamentarians debated the report, exchanging points of view regarding the current political and global affairs outlook.

In her address to the Parliament, Minister Gunnarsdóttir highlighted the pressing challenges facing global politics, including increasing tendencies of disregard for international law as well as the weaponization of trade barriers. She stressed that democratic nations must reevaluate their approach to security and defense, especially as threats to sovereignty and human rights become more pronounced.

Gunnarsdóttir identified Russia's invasion of Ukraine as the primary threat to European security and reaffirmed Iceland's commitment to continue to provide humanitarian and defense support to Ukraine.

Turning to the situation in Palestine, the Foreign Minister noted Iceland's active role in 2025 in advocacy for human rights and humanitarian assistance, highlighting recent efforts to engage with international bodies, including submissions to the International Court of Justice regarding Israel's obligations as an occupying power.

The Minister called for an honest and forthright debate about Iceland's potential European Union membership, stressing that economic security has become intertwined with broader security concerns. She urged that the public should be informed and involved in decisions regarding its future, particularly in light of the upcoming referendum on re-engaging in EU negotiations.

The Minister underscored the importance of development cooperation as a means to promote long-term peace and stability, asserting that aid efforts are essential for building resilient communities and reducing the likelihood of conflict.

In her closing remarks, Gunnarsdóttir emphasized the need for Iceland to uphold its commitment to human rights and to participate actively on the UN Human Rights Council and the international stage. On the 85th anniversary of the Icelandic Foreign Service, she called for a clear vision and bold actions to navigate the evolving global landscape.