The Karelian Arctic in the directions of China’s Arctic policy at the present stage

Abstract

The article identifies four main areas that define China’s strategic goals in the Arctic region: the energy sector, infrastructure, tourism, educational and scientific co-operation. Special attention is paid to the strategic friendship between Russia and China in the context of Arctic policy. The RussianChinese partnership in this region is seen as a key factor in ensuring the stability and development of Russia’s Arctic zone. The interaction between the two countries not only contributes to the strengthening of economic ties, but also ensures the security and sustainable development of the region. The paper presents examples of successful cooperation between the Republic of Karelia and the People’s Republic of China and analyses these relations as an example of the practical implementation of China’s Arctic strategy at the regional level. It is important to note that the realisation of many investment projects on exploration and mining in the Karelian Arctic is connected with the attraction of Chinese investment in this industry. The article also evaluates Chinese interests in the Karelian Arctic in other areas, such as the construction of hydroelectric power station infrastructure projects in the Kemsky region as well as some perspective projects related to the construction of a deep-sea port in Kem or a seaport in Belomorsk.