The 2026 Arctic Circle Assembly was held from October 8 to 10 in Reykjavík, capital of Iceland. Over 2,500 representatives from more than 70 countries and regions gathered to discuss Arctic-related issues including understanding, conservation, development and governance of the Arctic. Fu Ying, Former Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of China and Director of the Center for International Security and Strategy (CISS), led the Chinese delegation to the Assembly.

At the plenary session themed “Understanding China”, Fu Ying held a dialogue with Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman of the Arctic Circle and former President of Iceland. Fu Ying stated that the real challenge facing the Arctic region is climate change. The Arctic is witnessing sea ice melting, ice sheet shrinkage and rising temperatures, which are practical issues that all nations must tackle together. Countries should devote more attention and resources to scientific research and environmental protection, jointly assess challenges brought by climate change and get prepared at an early date. Too many discussions now dwell on imagined security threats and geopolitics, wasting precious time and resources.

Fu Ying noted that the joint statement issued by Chinese and Icelandic leaders last year highlighted strengthened cooperation on climate change and green energy. Such pragmatic cooperation better demonstrates China’s policies and intentions in engaging in Arctic affairs.

When talking about China’s development and its international role, Fu Ying said China stays committed to peaceful development. It has no intention of vying for global hegemony, nor does it believe the world needs a new hegemon. China stands ready to strengthen cooperation with all countries to foster a more just and equitable global governance system.

Founded in 2013 by Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, then President of Iceland, the Arctic Circle Assembly convenes annually in Iceland each October. It serves as a major global international dialogue platform for Arctic affairs.