The key facts
- China's Foreign Ministry called for respecting countries' rights to activity in the Arctic after the publication of the new EU strategy
- Kaja Kallas said the Arctic has become a 'front line' of global rivalry due to the expansion of Russia's and China's presence
- Mao Ning: China's activities in the Arctic comply with international law
Beijing's Reaction to the EU Strategy
China on Thursday called to 'fully respect' the 'right and freedom' of states to conduct activities in the Arctic. The statement by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning came after the European Union published its updated Arctic strategy. According to Mao, China's activities in the region are aimed at promoting peace, stability and sustainable development, and also comply with international law.
Brussels' Position
On Tuesday, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas said that the Arctic has turned into a 'front line' of global power rivalry against the backdrop of the expansion of Russia's and China's 'presence and ambitions' in the region. According to her, the revised EU strategy 'reflects this new reality and puts security at the forefront'.
Criticism of Bloc Thinking
Mao Ning added that dividing countries into 'Cold War' blocs and stoking geopolitical confrontation do not serve the interests of peace, stability and development in the Arctic region.
