China’s Coast Guard has recently announced that it successfully entered into the Arctic Ocean for the first time. According to the Coast Guard, the assignment’s success is attributed to the stepping up of security ties with its northern neighbor, Russia. This move has significant implications for the global geopolitical landscape, especially regarding the Arctic region.
The Chinese Coast Guard stated the achievement in an August 2021 report. Historically, China has not had a significant presence in the far north, given its geographical location far from the Arctic Circle. However, this latest development suggests a drastic shift in the country’s strategy, potentially aiming for an increased role in the Arctic’s future.
China’s decision to make moves in the Arctic isn’t unfounded. The incidents of global climate change and the melting of polar ice are opening up new shipping routes in the region. When full-fledged, these routes will link North Asia and Europe faster than the current routes through the Suez Canal. Thus, having a presence in the Arctic could provide China with vital logistical and strategic advantages, giving the country a more significant role in global trade.
The collaboration with Russia also seems to be strategically advantageous. Despite Moscow and Beijing having historical phases of tension, both nations have found mutual benefits in strengthening their relationship recently, particularly amid their respective tensions with the West. As a country with ample Arctic coastline, Russia has a well-established presence in the region. Therefore, collaboration with Russia brings Beijing a significant step closer to achieving its Arctic aspirations.
The bolstering of ties between the two nations can be seen as a pairing of China’s economic strength with Russia’s location and experience in the Arctic. It is an example of geopolitical pragmatism, where two nations share goals: to counterbalance the influence of the West, and potentially ensure a significant stake in determining the Arctic’s future.
While this move symbolizes China’s potential new role in the Arctic, it also raises several concerns. Other Arctic nations, particularly U.S., Canada, and various European countries, may see China’s escalated involvement as a threat to their interests. Also, China’s presence could potentially escalate tensions in an already fragile region, sandwiched between the interests of global superpowers. Environmental concerns are another significant issue, given that this move will likely increase shipping and potentially hazardous industries such as oil drilling in an ecosystem already under significant stress due to climate change.
China’s recent move into the Arctic via the collaboration with Russia is geopolitically significant. It marks a significant change in China’s strategy and emphasizes the country’s ambition to be a global player in the Arctic. While this move promises potential economic and strategic benefits for China and Russia, its potential implications for the region’s sensitive geopolitical balance and delicate ecosystem warrant careful examination.
