As the Arctic undergoes rapid transformation due to climate change, geopolitical interest and strategic engagement in the region are expanding—re aching well beyond traditional Arctic states. This session brings together key voices from Asia to explore how regional powers such as India, Korea, and Singapore, are positioning themselves in the evolving Arctic landscape. With growing stakes in sustainable development, maritime navigation, and scientific cooperation, Asian states are shaping new pathways for Arctic engagement. 

Driving Questions:

How do Asian states define their strategic interests in the Arctic, and how are these evolving?
What roles can non-Arctic Asian countries play in advancing sustainable and cooperative Arctic development?
How can Asia-Arctic partnerships be deepened to balance economic ambitions with environmental stewardship?

Speakers:

Byung-ha Chung, Ambassador for Polar Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea
Sam Tan Chin Siong, Special Envoy for Arctic Affairs, Government of Singapore, Singapore
Rear Admiral TVN Prasanna, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Government of India, India

Moderator:

Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, Chairman Arctic Circle; Former President of Iceland