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The Journey in the Hands of the Nation

From Morgunblaðið · () Icelandic

Translated from Icelandic, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Iceland's Minister for Environment, Energy, and Climate, Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson, addressed the nation's path forward.
  • He emphasized that the decision on whether to pursue a specific "journey" rests with the people, not politicians.
  • Jóhannsson's remarks were made during a parliamentary session, responding to discussions about Iceland's relationship with the European Union.

Iceland's Minister for Environment, Energy, and Climate, Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson, has asserted that the nation's future direction, particularly concerning its relationship with the European Union, is firmly in the hands of the Icelandic people. Speaking during a parliamentary session known as "eldhúsdagur" (kitchen day), Jóhannsson responded to a speech by Guðrún Hafsteinsdóttir, chair of the Independence Party, which heavily featured the EU issue. "It is up to the nation, not us here inside, to decide whether to embark on that journey," Jóhannsson stated, emphasizing trust in the public's judgment. He acknowledged that while Iceland is a strong nation, improvements are always possible, and his government is focused on addressing past shortcomings. Jóhannsson concluded by praising the current leadership under Kristrún Frostadóttir for revitalizing Icelandic politics and governance.

It is up to the nation, not us here inside, to decide whether to embark on that journey. We should trust the nation to answer that question, and we will get the right answer, whether it is yes or no, we will get the right answer.

— Jóhann Páll JóhannssonThe Minister for Environment, Energy, and Climate stated this during his speech at the parliamentary 'kitchen day' session, emphasizing that the decision on Iceland's path regarding the European Union rests with the citizens.
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Originally published by Morgunblaðið in Icelandic. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.