China's Race towards the Arctic: Interests, Legitimacy, and Canadian Security Implications
This thesis examines the PRC’s Arctic ambitions and the security and defence implications for Canada in having a more involved China in the Far North. The primary security issue for Canada is economic, more specifically the protection of sovereignty, maintaining control over its resources, avoiding trade vulnerabilities, and even the preservation of jobs for Canadians. Beijing is anxious to participate in Arctic-affairs because it will help diversify its energy imports and thus increasing energy security by guarding against disruptions that may result in instability. Although Beijing has not produced an official Arctic strategy, Chinese scientists, academics, media, PLA-affiliates, and government elites have shed light on how China will approach its involvement in the Arctic. Currently, China’s approach to the Arctic can be characterized by a strategy of buying into Arctic-related projects and participating in diplomatic organizations such as the Arctic Council and the Arctic Circle Forum.
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