We see that NATO countries are trying to turn the Northern and Arctic regions into a military-competitive zone. Russia has all the necessary means to ensure not only national security in this vast area stretching more than 10,000km but also international stability" - TASS quoted Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko as saying at the 4th "Arctic - Regions" Forum.
He emphasized: "We have the resources and determination to continue the path of strengthening military capabilities, and we will do so.
Mentioning the current challenges, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Grushko also noted that although the Baltic region was once considered the most peaceful region in Europe, "today this is the region in Europe with the most potential risk of serious conflict.
We see that NATO countries and the European Union (EU) are trying to increase tensions, while the risk of incidents, including unintended incidents, is increasing. This is the reality we face and unfortunately is also a factor we must consider in military planning, and we are doing so," the Russian diplomat added.
When it comes to resources, security is always the top priority," Mr. Grushko noted.
Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said that Russia continues to commit to maintaining the Arctic as a region with low levels of tension.
Despite the current fluctuations in the international arena, if considering the situation from the perspective of international law and Russia's position, it can be seen that there are no significant disputes in the Arctic," he said.
He pointed out that the continental shelf has been delimited, while the claims of other Arctic nations are being considered by the relevant United Nations committee.
This process is highly depoliticized and based on clear, objective criteria. In our view, the Arctic needs to continue to be a region with low levels of tension, and we are actively acting to maintain that" - Russian Deputy Foreign Minister emphasized.
Also speaking at the 4th "Arctic - Regions" Forum, Mr. Vladislav Maslennikov - Director of the European Affairs Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs - pointed out that the Arctic is becoming one of the important areas for Russia to strengthen cooperation with China and India.
The number of parties wishing to cooperate with Russia in the Arctic region is constantly increasing. The most effective dialogue is being formed with China and India. The two countries not only show interest in Arctic-related issues but also possess large resources to implement joint projects and initiatives in this field," he said.
