The number of Chinese voyages along the North Sea Route has increased by 62% compared to last year, with container shipments up by 30%. China considers the North Sea Route an important transportation corridor, stated Zhou Hao, Commercial Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Russia, at the 14th International Forum Arctic: Today and the Future. This is reported by IA Prime.

According to him, Chinese companies are optimistic about the NSR's development.

'Since 2013, ship passages along the North Sea Route have been conducted annually from June to September. This year, 13 voyages were completed, transporting over 10,000 containers, which surpasses last year's figures by 62% and 30% respectively,' the counsellor stated.

Zhou Hao noted that Beijing views the NSR as a crucial international transport route and collaborates in shipping, navigation safety, technology and Arctic vessel construction.

The counsellor added that China encourages enterprises from both countries to jointly develop NSR transportation based on market principles.