The Arctic Circle Assembly took place in Reykjavik, where European Commission Commissioner Josep Sickela delivered a policy speech. The event was held in the presence of Icelandic President Guðni Jóhannesson and other distinguished guests. In his remarks, the Commissioner shared his impressions from the flight to Iceland, noting the striking and austere beauty of the local landscape. This metaphor served as a starting point for discussing broader topics related to Arctic region development and the challenges facing countries represented at the assembly. The Arctic Circle Assembly is the largest international platform dedicated to Arctic issues, bringing together representatives of governments, business, the scientific community, and indigenous peoples to discuss climate change, economic development, security, and sustainable management of the region's resources. The participation of a high-ranking representative of the European Commission underscores the growing interest of the European Union in Arctic policy against the backdrop of intensifying competition for influence in the region among various world powers. The full text of the Commissioner's speech addressed matters of cooperation between European countries and Arctic states, as well as prospects for joint projects in the context of changing climate and geopolitical conditions.