Arctic Energy Development and China’s Engagement

Abstract

Climate warming has drawn increasing attention to Arctic energy development. In view of the important strategic significance of Arctic energy resources to China, China has also been actively participating in the development and utilization of Arctic energy resources in recent years. Currently, Russia, which is subject to Western sanctions, is vigorously promoting the eastward shift of Arctic energy cooperation and further deepening Arctic energy cooperation with China. Faced with Russia's enthusiastic cooperation, this is undoubtedly a good opportunity for China. But at the same time, Arctic oil and gas development is difficult and costly, and it is under long-term environmental pressure. Coupled with the cooling of international cooperation, these have added many uncertainties and risks to China's Arctic energy development. Therefore, on the one hand, China needs to seek synergy between Arctic energy science and technology research and energy cooperation, and pay attention to environmental protection and the interests of local Arctic people. On the other hand, while strengthening energy cooperation with Russia in the Arctic, China also needs to actively maintain dialogue with the Arctic 7 and explore energy cooperation paths to better promote China's energy security and long-term interests.