Aanchal Sinha
The author is a Post-graduate Student at the Department of East Asian Studies, Delhi University. This article was an outcome of the ‘Korea Centre Summer Internship Programme-2024′.
Abstract
In recent years, the Northern Sea Route (NSR) in the Arctic has gained attention as a potential game-changer for global maritime trade, especially for nations seeking alternative shipping routes. This study explores how India and South Korea, two rising maritime powers, can collaborate to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the NSR. It examines their respective strategic, technological, and economic interests in the Arctic, emphasizing the potential for cooperation in areas such as shipbuilding, infrastructure development, and Arctic governance. The study analyzes how India’s growing energy needs and diplomatic engagement with Russia, along with South Korea’s advanced shipbuilding industry and technological expertise, can create a synergy in Arctic shipping and resource exploration. Furthermore, it addresses the environmental and geopolitical challenges, including navigating Russia’s control over much of the NSR. Through an analysis of policy frameworks, trade partnerships, and international governance structures, this research highlights the mutual benefits and obstacles in an India-South Korea Arctic partnership. It contributes to understanding how both nations can jointly harness the NSR’s potential while navigating the complexities of Arctic geopolitics and sustainability.
Introduction
The Northern Sea Route (NSR) is becoming increasingly significant in global shipping due to the growing challenges faced by traditional maritime pathways. One of the primary issues affecting global trade is the heightened security risks along the Red Sea, where attacks by Houthi rebels from Yemen have made this route perilous and expensive. These threats have led to soaring insurance costs, particularly for countries like Norway, which operates one of the largest shipping fleets in the world. As a result, many shipping companies are looking for alternative routes to mitigate these risks, and the NSR, running along the northern coast of Russia, is emerging as a potential option. The NSR offers a shorter passage between Europe and Asia compared to the Suez Canal, which could significantly reduce shipping time. For non-Arctic countries like India and South Korea, this could present a strategic advantage. South Korea, with its robust shipbuilding industry and interest in utilizing the NSR for cargo transportation linking Europe, sees potential in this route despite its challenges. India, with its rapidly growing shipbuilding industry, is also poised to benefit from the NSR’s possibilities as it seeks to expand its maritime influence. India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and its goal to elevate the country’s global shipbuilding ranking are closely aligned with the opportunities presented by alternative shipping routes like the NSR.
However, the potential of the NSR extends beyond just economic advantages. By fostering collaboration between nations like India and South Korea, this emerging route could reshape global maritime dynamics, offering new opportunities for strategic partnerships, sustainable development, and innovations in Arctic shipping. This paper explores these possibilities, highlighting the shared interests and challenges that make the NSR a critical area of focus for both countries.
The Emerging Significance of the Northern Sea Route in Global Shipping
The Arctic region, traditionally covered by extensive ice, is undergoing profound transformations due to an unprecedented rate of ice melt. Since 1980, Arctic temperatures have increased at twice the rate of the global average, making the region a critical focal point in the study of global climate change impacts (Polar Regions Department, UK, 2013). This rapid reduction in ice cover presents both significant challenges and notable opportunities across economic, military, and environmental domains. As a result, nations, including both Arctic Council members and observers, are intensifying efforts to develop and implement Arctic policies and strategies while seeking to coordinate these initiatives on a global scale. Among the most promising opportunities linked to the melting Arctic ice is the potential for utilizing new maritime routes, specifically the Northwest Passage and the Northern Sea Route, for shipping cargo between Europe, Asia, Canada, and the United States. These routes, though complex and fraught with risks, offer significant logistical advantages.
The Northern Sea Route is a vital maritime corridor along Russia’s northern coast, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans as shown in Fig.1. This route offers a substantially shorter passage between Europe and Asia compared to traditional maritime routes such as the Suez and Panama Canals. The NSR traverses the Arctic Ocean and the Siberian coastline, extending from the Barents Sea, near the Arctic archipelago of Novaya Zemlya, to the Bering Strait, which separates Russia from Alaska. The 2021 blockage of the Suez Canal, a critical maritime route between Europe and Asia, has heightened interest in the NSR as a viable alternative. For Asia-Pacific countries situated in the Northern Hemisphere, the NSR offers a potentially more cost-effective and efficient option for transporting goods compared to the southern routes, such as the Suez Canal.
Fig.1. The Northern Sea Route (NSR), (SPH Media)
India’s Arctic Interests: A Historical Perspective
India’s engagement with the Arctic dates back over a century, with its association formally beginning in February 1920 through its participation in the Svalbard Treaty. Although commercial interests dominated its initial involvement, the scientific dimension of India’s Arctic engagement emerged in 1962 when Prof. Mahendra Nath Bose collaborated with Norwegian scientists to study the geology of the region by collecting fossil plants. However, significant Indian engagement with the Arctic region only began in the 21st century. The launch of India’s Arctic Research Program in 2007 marked the country’s renewed commitment, followed by the establishment of the Himadri Research Station in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard, in 2008. This research base has since been pivotal for India’s scientific explorations in the region, including atmospheric, biological, marine, and glaciological studies. Over time, India conducted a series of successful scientific expeditions, with thirteen completed by 2021. India’s formal recognition in Arctic governance came in 2013, when it became an observer state in the Arctic Council, further reinforcing its long-term interest in the region. The establishment of India’s first multi-sensor moored observatory in 2014 and the northernmost atmospheric laboratory in 2016 highlighted India’s expanding footprint in Arctic scientific research.
India’s early involvement in the Arctic was largely driven by its need to understand the Arctic’s role in global systems and its impacts on Indian weather patterns, especially the monsoons. The Arctic’s polar environment was seen as crucial for studying changes in global climate systems, a topic of increasing importance for India, given its dependency on the monsoon for agriculture and water security. The government’s continued investment in polar research, both in the Arctic and Antarctica, and India’s collaboration with institutions such as the Norwegian Polar Institute underline the long-term nature of its commitment to the Arctic region.
Evolving Motivations and Current Drivers of India’s Arctic Policy
While India’s initial focus in the Arctic was primarily on scientific research related to climate change and monsoon dynamics, its engagement has evolved to encompass broader economic, environmental, and strategic dimensions. The release of India’s first official Arctic policy in March 2022 signaled a shift toward a more comprehensive approach. The policy, titled “India and the Arctic: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development,” outlines six key pillars: scientific research, climate and environmental protection, economic and human development, transportation and connectivity, governance, and national capacity building. This multifaceted strategy highlights India’s heightened awareness of the Arctic’s geopolitical significance and the necessity to protect and advance its strategic interests in the region.
According to India’s Arctic Policy (2022), the Northern Sea Route (NSR) is recognized as a vital emerging shipping route that could significantly reshape global maritime trade by offering shorter transit times between Europe and Asia. The policy emphasizes India’s interest in Arctic navigation, focusing on the need for specific hydrographic and meteorological data as well as the development of Ice-class vessels to meet Polar Code standards. India’s well-developed maritime and hydrographic expertise, alongside its significant contribution to the global seafarer workforce, positions it to participate in the safe and sustainable navigation of the NSR.
India’s scientific interest in the Arctic remains a priority, particularly concerning the interaction between Arctic climate changes and their impacts on Indian weather systems. Numerous studies have demonstrated links between Arctic changes and the variability of the Indian monsoon. For instance, a decline in Arctic sea ice has been correlated with variability in monsoon patterns, highlighting the critical need for India to monitor and study the Arctic environment. This scientific approach continues to drive India’s involvement, with research institutions like the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) playing a leading role in conducting expeditions and collaborative studies in the region.
However, economic interests have also started to shape India’s Arctic engagement. The melting of Arctic ice presents potential opportunities for new shipping routes, notably the Northern Sea Route, which could significantly reduce transportation times and costs for goods between Europe and Asia. India, as part of its broader maritime strategy, is keen on exploring such alternative routes to secure reliable and efficient shipping lanes. Furthermore, India’s reliance on imported energy has spurred interest in the Arctic’s vast oil and gas reserves, particularly in collaboration with Russia, which has been a key partner in India’s energy security strategy. Recent investments by India’s Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) in Arctic energy projects underscore the economic motivations driving India’s Arctic policy.
India’s involvement in the Arctic is also strategically aligned with its broader foreign policy goals, particularly in building partnerships with Arctic nations and participating in global efforts to address climate change. India’s strategic interests in the Arctic are reinforced by its membership in international bodies like the Arctic Council and its collaborations with countries such as Norway and Canada on scientific research. The focus on building synergies between polar and Himalayan studies also highlights India’s ambition to leverage its expertise in these areas to contribute to global polar research.
South Korea’s Arctic Interests: A Historical Perspective
South Korea’s involvement in Arctic affairs, often described as a latecomer in the arena, has significantly advanced over the past 15 years. Initially, South Korean interest in the Arctic was modest, characterized by scientific studies initiated in the 1990s, including collaborative projects with Japan and China. However, the turn of the millennium marked a pivotal shift as South Korea began to recognize the commercial potential of the Arctic region, particularly with the emergence of practical shipping routes that promised to enhance global trade efficiency. In 2001, the Korea Arctic Science Council was established to facilitate further research and exploration in the region. By 2002, South Korea had joined the International Arctic Science Committee and opened its first Arctic research station at Dasan in Svalbard. The launch of the research icebreaker Araon in 2009 and the attainment of observer status at the Arctic Council in 2013 exemplified South Korea’s commitment to expanding its presence in Arctic affairs. The official release of the first Arctic Policy Master Plan in 2013 marked a significant milestone, making South Korea the first Asian nation to outline a comprehensive approach to Arctic engagement, emphasizing international cooperation and sustainable development.
Evolving Motivations and Current Drivers of South Korea’s Arctic Policy
Over the years, South Korea’s motivations for Arctic engagement have evolved from primarily scientific endeavors to a more multifaceted approach driven by economic and geopolitical considerations. As a country reliant on imports for 97% of its energy needs, South Korea aims to diversify its energy sources, including tapping into Arctic oil and gas reserves. The Korea Maritime Institute has estimated substantial economic benefits, projecting transportation savings of $1 billion with just a partial shift to Arctic energy sources. The establishment of partnerships with Russian companies for LNG projects underscores South Korea’s strategic interest in Arctic energy development. Moreover, the melting Arctic ice presents new fishing opportunities, as climate change is expected to increase fish stocks in the region, further motivating South Korean investment in Arctic fisheries. The country is also keen on exploiting new shipping routes that could reduce transit times between Asia and Europe by approximately 10 days, presenting significant logistical advantages for South Korean exports. In addition to these economic drivers, South Korea’s Arctic policy reflects a commitment to technological advancement and international cooperation. The Second Arctic Policy Master Plan emphasizes enhancing scientific research capabilities, expanding collaboration with Arctic states, and establishing a solid institutional framework for polar policy development. The growing importance of the Arctic as a site for global climate action has also shaped South Korea’s engagement strategy, aligning its goals with broader international efforts to address climate change. In this context, South Korea’s Arctic policy serves to reinforce its identity as a proactive participant in global governance, balancing economic aspirations with environmental responsibilities. As the geopolitical landscape in the Arctic evolves, South Korea is well-positioned to adapt its strategies, aiming to capitalize on emerging opportunities while navigating the complexities of regional and global dynamics.
India and South Korea’s Strategic Interests in the NSR
India’s
India’s engagement with the Northern Sea Route is driven by multiple strategic interests that align with its broader geopolitical and economic objectives. One of the most compelling factors is the increasing cargo traffic through the NSR, which has been on a consistent upward trajectory, boasting a growth rate of approximately 73% from 2018 to 2022. The route is particularly significant for India due to its reliance on energy imports, specifically crude oil and coal from Russia. The NSR serves as a reliable and efficient transportation artery for these vital resources, positioning India to secure its energy needs amidst fluctuating global markets.
Geographically, India’s location near major maritime trade routes enhances the strategic importance of the NSR as a transit corridor. The development of the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) exemplifies this strategic alignment, promising to significantly reduce shipping times between India and Russia. This 10,500 km route, which connects through the Sea of Japan and the South China Sea, will cut transport time to just 12 days, offering a stark contrast to traditional routes that take up to 32 days.
Moreover, India’s participation in the NSR is crucial for balancing the growing influence of China in the region. The potential for a China-Russia alliance raises concerns for India, particularly in light of its historically contentious relationship with China. By engaging in the NSR development, India seeks to prevent an increasingly isolated Russia from becoming overly dependent on China, thereby maintaining its own strategic autonomy and influence in the region.
Additionally, the NSR aligns with India’s Sagarmala initiative, which aims to modernize and enhance the efficiency of its port infrastructure. The integration of the CVMC with the NSR is expected to facilitate trade and bolster economic growth through port-led development. By investing in infrastructure in Vladivostok, India not only aims to enhance its connectivity but also to position itself as a key player in Arctic trade.
India’s strategic interests in the NSR encompass energy security, enhanced trade efficiency, geopolitical balance, and economic development through port modernization. As the route becomes increasingly navigable due to climate change, India is poised to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the NSR, reinforcing its position in the Arctic and its relationship with Russia.
South Korea’s
South Korea has been actively pursuing opportunities in the Northern Sea Route, recognizing its potential as a significant shipping corridor linking East Asia and Europe. Despite various challenges, South Korea’s strategic initiatives highlight its commitment to leveraging the NSR for enhanced trade and economic cooperation. Since establishing the Dasan Scientific Research Station in the Arctic in 2012 and launching its first icebreaker, “Araon” in 2009, South Korea has positioned itself as a key player in Arctic exploration and navigation.
The nation’s participation in the Arctic Council as a permanent observer has further solidified its status in the region, facilitating collaborations with Arctic nations, particularly through Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) focused on port development in Asia with Russia and Arctic utilization with Norway. South Korean logistics companies have conducted pilot shipments via the NSR, underscoring the practical steps taken toward commercializing this route.
To optimize the utilization of the NSR, South Korea recognizes the necessity of developing interconnected transportation networks, including port infrastructure in the Russian Far East and North Korea, as well as enhancing railway connectivity between the two Koreas. This infrastructure is essential for realizing the full potential of the NSR and fostering efficient logistics networks.
In addition to this, South Korea sees potential in Arctic marine tourism, given the rising interest in environmentally friendly travel experiences. The development of cruise routes that connect East Asian ports with Arctic destinations capitalizes on geographical advantages, fostering regional tourism growth. The burgeoning interest in Arctic tourism aligns with the increasing economic opportunities presented by the melting ice, which has opened new avenues for exploration and trade.
Trade statistics reveal that in 2012, South Korea’s cargo volume through the NSR amounted to 564,355 tons, demonstrating a keen interest in using this route for shipping. Although there was a slight decline in 2013, the types of cargo shipped primarily bulk liquids, indicate the route’s viability for specific trade needs. South Korea’s overall trade with Europe, which reached $144.6 billion in 2013, is expected to grow, further motivating Korean shipping companies to consider the NSR as an alternative transit route.
The potential for increased trade with Europe and Russia, driven by the Korea-EU Free Trade Agreement, aligns with South Korea’s goal of diversifying its sources of imported natural resources. Furthermore, studies suggest that the NSR could accommodate thousands of voyages under favorable conditions, enhancing its attractiveness as a shipping corridor. However, the economic feasibility of utilizing the NSR remains contingent on various factors, including the collaboration of cargo owners, vessel operators, and the Russian government.
South Korea’s engagement with Arctic affairs, particularly through its New Northern Policy and the “9-Bridge Strategy,” demonstrates its strategic focus on expanding cooperation with Russia across various infrastructure sectors, including Arctic shipping lanes as shown in Fig.2.. Unveiled in 2017, the 9-Bridge Strategy emphasizes collaboration in areas such as shipbuilding, ports, and energy transportation, aligning well with Russia’s efforts to optimize its Arctic resources and shipping routes. A key aspect of this strategy has been the mutual interest in enhancing Arctic shipping, with Russia seeking efficient and cost-effective ways to transport liquefied natural gas (LNG) from its Yamal LNG project through Arctic waters. South Korea, aiming to revitalize its shipbuilding industry, secured significant contracts to construct specialized ice-class LNG tankers designed for Arctic navigation. By leveraging its shipbuilding expertise and Russia’s Arctic resources, South Korea is positioning itself as a crucial player in the development of the Northern Sea Route. This cooperation not only advances economic ties between the two countries but also underscores South Korea’s role in the broader geopolitical and commercial developments in the Arctic, offering new opportunities for more efficient global trade routes and resource transportation.
South Korea’s strategic interests in the Northern Sea Route are multifaceted, encompassing energy resource development, tourism, and enhanced trade opportunities. The country’s proactive engagement with Arctic stakeholders and investment in necessary infrastructure will be crucial for unlocking the full potential of the NSR, establishing it as a key component of South Korea’s maritime and economic strategy.
Fig.2. ‘9-Bridge’ of New Northern Policy
Source-The Characteristics of South Korea’s New Northern Policy and Cooperation with Eurasia Countries’ Initiatives Focused on China, Mongolia and Russia -Journal of Digital Convergence | Korea Science
Collaboration Between India and South Korea on the Northern Sea Route: Opportunities and Strategic Synergies
The Northern Sea Route offers tremendous opportunities for India and South Korea, two non-circumpolar nations with growing stakes in the Arctic region. As global warming continues to melt Arctic ice, the NSR is emerging as a viable alternative to the Suez Canal for shipping between Asia and Europe, significantly reducing travel time and fuel costs. The strategic and commercial potential of this route is immense, particularly for countries like India, which is heavily reliant on fossil fuel imports, and South Korea, a global leader in shipbuilding and logistics.
Energy Security and Economic Cooperation
India’s energy security has long been a critical concern, with more than 30% of its imports consisting of crude oil. The NSR, which could offer a more efficient and potentially cost-effective shipping route for transporting oil and gas from the Arctic to Asian markets, presents a unique opportunity for India. South Korea, with its growing interest in becoming a hub for Arctic oil storage, could be a key partner in this endeavor. Collaboration could take the form of joint ventures between Indian energy firms like ONGC and South Korean companies for the exploration and transport of Arctic resources. By including Arctic resources in their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), India and South Korea could formalize tariff concessions on the storage and transportation of crude oil. This would provide both nations with long-term strategic advantages in meeting their energy needs, especially as Arctic oil becomes more accessible through the NSR.
Technological Collaboration in Shipbuilding and Navigation
South Korea’s global leadership in shipbuilding, particularly in the development of ice-class vessels designed for Arctic conditions, offers another area for fruitful collaboration. South Korean companies such as Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) have extensive experience in building ice-capable ships and could assist India in modernizing its fleet to make it Arctic-ready. Joint R&D projects could be established to design next-generation icebreakers, where South Korea contributes its technical expertise while India offers investment and skilled labor.
In addition, both nations could collaborate on advanced navigation systems tailored for Arctic routes. Safe navigation through the NSR requires specialized satellite and digital systems due to the extreme conditions and the presence of ice. South Korea’s advanced technological capabilities in digital navigation, combined with India’s growing space infrastructure, exemplified by the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) achievements, could lead to the development of highly sophisticated systems for Arctic shipping. Such collaboration would not only enhance the safety of NSR transit but also position both countries as pioneers in Arctic shipping technology.
Infrastructure and Investment Partnerships
Infrastructure development is key to unlocking the full potential of the NSR, and India and South Korea have the resources and expertise to make significant contributions in this area. Both nations could jointly invest in Arctic ports and logistical infrastructure, particularly in Russia, which controls much of the NSR. Given the geopolitical complexities surrounding Arctic development, such as Russia’s significant influence, India and South Korea could benefit from pooling their financial resources and technical know-how to make the NSR more commercially viable.
One possible avenue of collaboration is the creation of a joint Arctic infrastructure investment fund. This fund could channel Indian capital and South Korean expertise into developing ports, icebreakers, and other critical infrastructure, thereby reducing the risk and cost of NSR shipping. This collaboration would help both nations reduce their dependence on Western-controlled shipping routes while positioning themselves as key players in the Arctic’s emerging maritime economy.
Geopolitical and Diplomatic Engagement
In the Arctic, governance is as crucial as infrastructure. Both India and South Korea hold observer status in the Arctic Council, providing a platform for diplomatic engagement. However, India has been relatively absent from key Arctic forums, while South Korea has actively participated in Arctic-related discussions. Strengthening diplomatic collaboration between the two countries in Arctic governance forums could ensure that their voices are heard in shaping the future of the NSR.
Furthermore, both nations could advocate for a more inclusive governance structure within the Arctic Council, one that better represents the interests of non-Arctic states. India and South Korea share common concerns about ensuring open access to Arctic shipping routes and mitigating the dominance of Russia and China in Arctic affairs. Joint diplomatic efforts could help both nations secure a more equitable stake in the governance of the NSR, while also promoting environmentally sustainable practices in the region.
Addressing Environmental and Sustainability Concerns
The opening of the NSR presents not only economic opportunities but also significant environmental challenges. The Arctic is a fragile ecosystem, and any development in the region must be conducted with a high level of environmental responsibility. Both India and South Korea have expressed commitments to sustainability, with South Korea being a leader in green technology and India playing a prominent role in international climate negotiations.
By working together, the two countries could spearhead initiatives focused on sustainable Arctic shipping. This might include the development of eco-friendly ships and the creation of monitoring systems to assess the environmental impact of NSR activities. Combining South Korea’s green technology expertise with India’s leadership in climate diplomacy would ensure that any collaboration in the Arctic is not only economically beneficial but also environmentally responsible.
Challenges and Way Forward
Navigating the complexities of potential collaboration on the Northern Sea Route presents India and South Korea with various strategic and logistical hurdles.India and South Korea face a number of challenges as they explore the potential for collaboration on the Northern Sea Route . One of the foremost concerns is environmental. The rapid melting of Arctic ice, one of the most visible effects of global warming, has made the NSR more accessible, yet it has also raised significant ecological concerns. Increased shipping activity in the Arctic, especially through areas of high environmental sensitivity, could have detrimental impacts on fragile ecosystems. Both India and South Korea, as stakeholders in the region, would need to carefully address the environmental consequences of their involvement, ensuring that their actions align with global sustainability goals.
Another major challenge lies in the geopolitical dynamics associated with the NSR, which passes predominantly through Russian territorial waters. India’s engagement with the route could necessitate delicate diplomatic negotiations with Russia, a key Arctic player, and other Arctic states. Given India’s current foreign policy, which balances its relationships with Russia, the U.S., and other major global powers, navigating these geopolitical waters may prove complex. Similarly, South Korea, with its increasing Arctic interests, will have to manage the region’s intricate geopolitical tensions, particularly in the context of the Arctic’s growing strategic importance.
In addition to these concerns, the NSR introduces heightened security risks. The route’s increasing relevance in global maritime trade brings with it the threat of piracy, the possibility of maritime accidents, and the need for advanced search and rescue capabilities in the harsh Arctic environment. Both India and South Korea would need to invest in comprehensive security frameworks to mitigate these risks, ensuring the safe passage of vessels and cargo through the route.
Finally, both nations must confront the intricate regulatory landscape that governs Arctic shipping, encompassing international standards related to safety, environmental conservation, and the rights of indigenous peoples. Adhering to these regulations is essential for India and South Korea as they seek to broaden their presence in the Arctic. Ensuring compliance will not only legitimize their activities but also reflect a commitment to responsible stewardship in the region. Therefore, a collaborative approach to understanding and integrating these regulatory frameworks is vital, allowing both countries to mitigate potential risks while promoting sustainable practices in their Arctic endeavors. Such cooperation is essential for establishing a strong partnership that contributes positively to the governance of the Northern Sea Route and the broader Arctic region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Northern Sea Route presents significant opportunities for collaboration between India and South Korea, two non-circumpolar nations with burgeoning interests in Arctic affairs. Their engagement with the NSR is driven by mutual strategic objectives encompassing energy security, economic advancement, and technological innovation. As both countries articulate their Arctic policies, it becomes evident that they recognize the NSR’s potential to facilitate enhanced trade and resource access, particularly in light of the changing climate and the consequent accessibility of Arctic routes.
However, the pursuit of collaboration in this region is not without challenges. The geopolitical landscape surrounding the NSR, primarily influenced by Russia’s territorial claims, necessitates careful diplomatic navigation. Additionally, the pressing environmental concerns associated with increased shipping activity in the Arctic underscore the need for both nations to adopt a framework of sustainable practices. Security risks inherent to Arctic navigation, including potential maritime accidents and piracy, further complicate the operational environment.
To effectively leverage the advantages of the NSR, India and South Korea must establish a comprehensive and coordinated approach that prioritizes sustainable development, strengthens diplomatic relations, and invests in the necessary infrastructure. Such collaboration will not only enhance their positions as significant players in Arctic affairs but also contribute to a broader discourse on global maritime governance and environmental protection. By fostering a partnership built on shared interests and mutual benefits, India and South Korea can exemplify how non-Arctic states can responsibly engage in the Arctic, ensuring that their activities are both economically advantageous and environmentally sound.
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