NATO Secretary General Warns Russia, China Have Formed a Strategic Partnership in Arctic

"Understanding that Russia is an increasing concern to all of us makes it timely for us to share with the secretary-general and with NATO all the things Canada is doing through Norad, but also independently to make sure we're protecting this region," he said.

"We will continue to lead on the defence of North America. But as NATO members, it is, of course, perfectly germane to invite the secretary-general (to Canada) and to highlight the work that we're doing as NATO members in protecting this region."

Stoltenberg's tour included meeting troops in Nunavut participating in the Canadian Armed Forces' premier Arctic training exercise, as well as seeing one of the military radar sites that forms the backbone of Canada's contribution to Norad today.