Is Svalbard becoming a geopolitical flashpoint in the High North? Trends unfolding in the Arctic indicate a potential conflict scenario involving Russia and China, adding to the region’s tensions.
The latest incident concerns Norway’s decision to restrict the sale of the last privately owned land in Svalbard, ostensibly to prevent its acquisition by China. On July 1, the Norwegian government declared that the sale of property in Søre Fagerfjord, located in south-west Svalbard, now requires state approval under the National Security Act. This measure was taken due to fears that the sale to certain parties could threaten national security interests. The property owner had expressed willingness to sell to buyers potentially challenging Norwegian sovereignty in the region. However, legal experts have raised concerns over Norway’s decision.
Per Kyllingstad, the attorney for the sellers, had indicated that there had been definite interest from Chinese buyers who have shown a sustained enthusiasm for the Arctic and Svalbard. He characterized the sale as a rare chance to purchase “the last private land in Svalbard, and possibly the last private land in the world’s high Arctic.” For the full text Read
Svalbard: Another Flashpoint Of Arctic Tensions – Analysis – Eurasia Review
