The consequences of global warming made it possible for China to use a new sea route in the Arctic. The route will run along the coast of North America and the Canadian Arctic Archipelago and open new opportunities for Chinese ships.
"The use of the route on a regular basis can significantly change the system of maritime traffic and influence international trade, global economy and mining," a representative for China’s Maritime Safety Administration said.
At the same, head of Chinese Arctic and Antarctic Administration Wang Yong stressed that the existing Northern Sea Route won’t lose its relevance and will further be a subject to cooperation between China and Russia.
"The development of the Northern Sea Route, which certainly has a positive impact, and maintenance of a positive dialogue with a number of countries will be mutually beneficial. By maintaining cooperation with Russia, China will be able to fill the missing knowledge about the Arctic, with both parties showing their willingness to cooperate," Yong told Sputnik.
Earlier in April, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei stated that in the long run the Northern Sea Route will be beneficial for the transport of goods between Europe and Asia and predicted significant activation of the sea navigation.
"Russia and China have repeatedly cooperated in Antarctica’s studies and, in particular, they have helped each other in the field of logistics," Yong said. "We hope that the countries will also expand their cooperation and interaction in the study of the Polar region," Yong said.
