BEIJING: China opposed on Thursday "using Cold War mentality" to stoke conflict over the Arctic, after the European Union linked Beijing's cooperation with Russia in the region to security concerns.
The EU unveiled on Tuesday a push to boost Arctic surveillance and expand icebreaker fleets, alluding to China's growing "strategic ambitions... as it deepens its partnership with Russia."
Europe, China, Russia and the United States are jostling for influence in the polar region that is seen as an important trade route.
This summer, a Chinese shipowner began a weekly container service through the Arctic on an express route to Europe, prompting concerns over vessels warming polar ice.
