US National Strategy for the Arctic Region
The National Strategy for the Arctic Region sets forth the United States Government’sstrategic priorities for the Arctic region. This strategy is intended to position theUnited States to respond effectively to challenges and emerging opportunities arising fromsignificant increases in Arctic activity due to the diminishment of sea ice and theemergence of a new Arctic environment.
It defines U.S. national security interests in theArctic region and identifies prioritized lines of effort, building upon existing initiatives byFederal, state, local, and tribal authorities, the private sector, and international partners,and aims to focus efforts where opportunities exist and action is needed. It is designed tomeet the reality of a changing Arctic environment,while simultaneously pursue the global objective of combating the climatic changes that are driving these environmentalconditions. US strategy is built on three lines of effort:
Advance United States Security Interests
-Enable vessels and aircraft tooperate, consistent with international law, through, under, and over the airspace andwaters of the Arctic, support lawful commerce, achieve a greater awareness of activityin the region, and intelligently evolve our Arctic infrastructure and capabilities,including ice-capable platforms as needed. U.S. security in the Arctic encompasses abroad spectrum of activities, ranging from those supporting safe commercial andscientific operations to national defense.
Pursue Responsible Arctic Region Stewardship
-Continue to protect theArctic environment and conserve its resources; establish and institutionalize an integrated Arctic management framework; chart the Arctic region; and employscientific research and traditional knowledge to increase understanding of the Arctic.
Strengthen International Cooperation
-Working through bilateral relationships andmultilateral bodies, including the Arctic Council, we will pursue arrangements thatadvance collective interests, promote shared Arctic state prosperity, protect the Arcticenvironment, and enhance regional security, and lwork toward U.S. accession tothe United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Law of the Sea Convention).
To view the US strategy for the Arctic Region, click here.
Source: White House