Polar Silk Road | 20 Jan 2026

Source: DC 

Recent US remarks on Greenland have revived debate on China’s Arctic ambitions, though expert assessments indicate China’s direct military presence in the region remains limited.  

Polar Silk Road Initiative 

• About: It is an extension of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) into the Arctic, aiming to develop shipping routes, access resources, and enhance its geopolitical influence by capitalizing on climate change-driven melting arctic ice. 
  • BRI is a global infrastructure and connectivity programme launched by China in 2013, aiming to build roads, railways, ports, energy pipelines, and digital links across Asia, Europe, and Africa to boost trade and investment. 
• Origin & Objective: It was jointly announced by China and Russia in 2017. China's 2018 Arctic Policy labelled China a “near-Arctic state” and promoted cooperation on Arctic shipping, resources, and science. 
  • China's 2030 goal is to be a “polar great power”, recognizing the Arctic's rising strategic and economic value. 
• Routes: The PSR primarily focuses on the Northern Sea Route along Russia’s Arctic coast, offering significantly shorter Asia–Europe distance (upto 40%), with the Northwest Passage (along Canada's coast) as a secondary option. 
• Strategic Rationale: China aims to enhance energy security, reduce dependency on traditional chokepoints like the Suez Canal, and expand geopolitical influence through partnerships, notably with Russia.