Chinese Coast Guard patrol ships have entered the waters of the Arctic Ocean to conduct joint patrols with the Russian Border Service, marking a significant milestone in cooperation. 

This event coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the USSR and China, as announced by the Chinese agency on October 2.

The patrols have tested the capability of Chinese ships to operate in unfamiliar waters and emphasised China's growing involvement in international and regional ocean governance. The patrol included the Chinese ship Meishan and the Russian Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.

The joint exercises encompassed defence against drone attacks and the search for a hypothetical enemy submarine. Experts highlight the symbolic significance of China's involvement in Arctic patrols, particularly amid Russia’s strained relations with Western Arctic nations. 

China has significant interests in the region, including economic and environmental concerns, and is a major investor in Arctic energy projects, such as LNG development and the Northern Sea Route. China’s Arctic ambitions are primarily focused on research and resource development, with no military intentions in the region. 

The reaction from the U.S. followed promptly when the Coast Guard spotted the vessels, saying that the Operation Sentinel is designed “to meet presence with presence when strategic competitors operate in and around U.S. waters”. According to United States Coast Guard News, the U.S. Coast Guard’s presence strengthens the international rules-based order and promotes operations conducted in accordance with international law and norms.

The U.S. Coast Guard pointed out that Chinese Coast Guard vessels had not been observed this far north before, noted High North News. “This recent activity demonstrates the increased interest in the Arctic by our strategic competitors,” said Rear Admiral, the commander of the 17th Coast Guard District.

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