Arrival and inspection of von der Leyen at the site of the volcanic eruption, as captured in photographs
In an exciting development, Prime Minister Kristjana Frostadottir of Iceland and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are set to visit Iceland to bolster cooperation between Iceland and the European Union. The visit, scheduled for an unspecified date, promises to focus on climate action, green transition, and economic collaboration.
The agenda for the visit includes a series of meetings and tours designed to foster closer ties and explore opportunities for joint initiatives. Key among these meetings is a bilateral discussion between Prime Minister Frostadottir and President von der Leyen, where they will delve into Iceland-EU relations, with a particular emphasis on climate policy, sustainable energy, and economic cooperation.
Additional meetings are planned with Icelandic government officials and EU representatives to explore collaborative projects on renewable energy and environmental protection. The visit also includes a tour of geothermal energy facilities, showcasing Iceland's expertise in renewable energy and potential EU collaboration on clean energy projects.
Tours of climate research centres or innovation hubs involved in green technology and sustainability are also on the agenda, offering insights into Iceland's efforts in these areas. Visits to local municipalities or initiatives demonstrating climate resilience and green transition in action are also planned, providing a practical perspective on Iceland's commitment to sustainability.
The trip aims to reinforce Iceland’s role as a key partner in the EU’s Green Deal and to explore new avenues for cooperation on sustainability and innovation.
Upon arrival in Reykjavik, Prime Minister Frostadottir warmly welcomed President von der Leyen at the airport. Later this afternoon, von der Leyen will meet with Prime Minister Frostadottir and Foreign Minister Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir.
The tour portion of the visit will see the two leaders boarding a Coast Guard helicopter for a unique perspective of the ongoing eruption at the Sundhnúkur crater row. After the helicopter ride, they will continue their tour, with potential stops at Þingvellir and Grindavík. The visit is being conducted by the Icelandic Coast Guard.
Following the tour and meetings, von der Leyen and the leaders are expected to hold a press conference to share updates on the discussions and plans for future cooperation. Stay tuned for updates as the visit date approaches.
The bilateral discussion between Prime Minister Frostadottir and President von der Leyen may include discussions on Iceland-EU relations, including climate policy, sustainable energy, and economic cooperation. The tour portion of the visit will include a viewing of the ongoing eruption at the Sundhnúkur crater row, which could make headlines as a news item related to geoscience or natural disasters. Following the visit, political and general news outlets may report on the updates shared during the press conference and plans for future cooperation between Iceland and the European Union.
