ARKHANGELSK, Russia, March 30 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang attended the 4th International Arctic Forum (IAF) here on Wednesday and Thursday, saying China is willing to play a bigger role in Arctic development.
China is an important stakeholder in Arctic affairs, Wang said when delivering a speech at the opening ceremony of the two-day event.
He called for stronger protection of the Arctic environment, deeper scientific exploration, legal and reasonable utilization of Artic resources, and joint maintenance of peace and stability in the region.
China is willing to discuss with other countries over joint efforts in exploration in a bid to usher in a bright future for the Arctic region, Wang added.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, Finnish President Sauli Niinisto and Icelandic President Gudni Johannesson addressed the plenary session of the IAF on Thursday.
The IAF gathered more than 2,000 government officials, business leaders and senior experts from nearly 30 countries, including the United States, Canada, Denmark and Norway.
On Wednesday, Wang and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin co-chaired a session of the committee for the regular meeting of Chinese and Russian heads of government.
Both sides spoke highly of the comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination between both countries.
Wang and Rogozin exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in the Arctic, nuclear energy, agriculture, civil aviation and other areas.
