The Chinese government published a white paper regarding its Arctic policy, aiming to seize opportunities and face challenges in the region together with all concerned parties, on January 26.
The white paper on Arctic policy, published in eight languages, is the first of its kind to be published by the Chinese government, said Hu Kaihong, spokesperson for the State Council Information Office, during a news conference on Januarg 26.
“China, as a responsible major country, is ready to cooperate with all relevant parties to seize the historic opportunity in the development of the Arctic, to address the challenges brought by the changes in the region,” said the white paper.
China is ready to participate in Arctic affairs, in the context of “respect, cooperation, win-win result and sustainability,” Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou stated at the news conference.
The country will also aim to expand its goals to “understand, protect, develop and participate” in the governance of the Arctic, Mr. Kong said.
Furthermore, China will manage Arctic-related affairs and activities that are within its jurisdiction, complying with with the law, as it wants to better understand, protect and develop the Arctic, and actively participate in international cooperation in Arctic affairs, through the “Polar Silk Road”.
During this project, navigation security will be very important. For this reason, China conducted studies on the Polar Silk Road routes, in order to improve the navigation in these areas, Xinhua news agency said.
Finally, China will attempt to expand its oil, gas, mineral resources and other non-fossil energies, such as fishing and tourism, in cooperation with Arctic States, while also protecting the the indigenous populations and the environment.
