Conclusion 134

There are divergent views on China’s intentions towards the Arctic and interpretations of China’s official statements regarding the region. Dr Marc Lanteigne, Associate Professor at the University of Tromsø, noted that the notion of China as a “polar great power” ( jidi qiangguo ) can be understood in different ways. The term “power” could be taken as “might” and be understood to include a military aspect. However, in Dr Lanteigne’s view there is also a strong emphasis on China gaining knowledge as a relative newcomer to the region: “The discussion about ‘polar great power’ very much reflects this knowledge gap that China has been trying to fill and this has become much more difficult in the current geostrategic situation, especially with the worsened relations between the West and Russia.” 148