Abstract
Over the last two decades, China has significantly expanded its polar agenda and activities. It is a long-term strategic priority for China to establish itself as a legitimate and influential polar stakeholder with a permanent presence and access to conduct various activities in the Arctic and Antarctic. In Chinese strategic considerations and plans, the polar regions, together with the deep seabed and outer space, are categorized as “strategic spaces” [zhanlüe kongjian] or “new strategic frontiers” [zhanlüe xinjiang yu]