谢谢大家！
(Translation)
For a Bright New Future of the Arctic
Address by Vice Premier Wang Yang at the Opening Ceremony of The Fourth International Arctic Forum
Arkhangelsk,29March
Your Excellency Vice Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin,
DistinguishedGuests,
LadiesandGentlemen,
I am delighted to attend the Fourth International Arctic Forum on Arctic: Territory of Dialogue". As we gather at Arkhangelsk, the "gateway to the Arctic", I wish this Forum could open a new gate to Arctic development and cooperation.
China, as an important stakeholder, has long participated in Arctic affairs in accordance with law. China joined the Spitsbergen Treaty as early as in 1925. Over the past 90 years and more, China has contributed to the development of the Arctic through deepening exploration and expanding cooperation. China has proven a participant, facilitator and contributor in the Arctic affairs. It is willing and able to play a bigger role in promoting Arctic development and cooperation.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Arctic is experiencing rapid, historical changes. Under the new conditions, China will participate in Arctic affairs under the three policy principles of respect, cooperation and sustainability. "Respect" means that we will respect Arctic states' sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the Arctic, the tradition and culture of Arctic residents the rights and freedom of non-Arctic countries to carry out lawful activities in the Arctic and the overall interests of the international community in the Arctic. "Cooperation"means that we will share opportunities and confront challenges with other countries to improve the multi-dimensional Arctic governance structure and actively carry out multi-tiered and wide ranging international cooperation for mutual benefit. "Sustainability" means we need to strike a balance between protection and development and between the immediate and long-term interests of the Arctic so as to realize harmonious coexistence between man and nature and sustainable development of the Arctic. With this in mind, China proposes the following:
— We need to enhance environmental protection in the Arctic. The Arctic is a "barometer" for climate change worldwide and a "super air conditioner" for curbing global warming. The international community needs to keep environmental protection in the Arctic on top of its agenda and prevent irreversible damage to the region. China takes an active part in environmental treatment and promotes environmental cooperation for the Arctic.
