China’s Arctic activities aim to promote peace, stability and sustainable development in accordance with international law, said foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning. (EPA Images pic).BEIJING: China on Thursday opposed what it called a “Cold War mentality” fuelling tensions in the Arctic after the EU raised security concerns over Beijing’s cooperation with Russia in the region.

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.