From March 29 to 30, 2017, Vice Premier Wang Yang attended the 4th International Arctic Forum (IAF) themed "Arctic: Territory of Dialogue" in Arkhangelsk, Russia, and addressed the opening ceremony.

Wang Yang expressed that China is an important stakeholder in Arctic affairs, and has long participated in Arctic affairs in accordance with law. As a participant, builder and contributor of Arctic affairs, China is willing to and able to play a greater role in Arctic development and cooperation. China participates in Arctic affairs based on the three major policy principles of respect, cooperation and sustainability. Under the new situation, we should enhance protection of Arctic ecological environment, continuously deepen scientific exploration in the Arctic region, legally and reasonably develop and use Arctic resources, and improve the Arctic governance system and mechanism, so as to jointly safeguard Arctic peace and stability. China is willing to deepen communication and expand cooperation with all countries, so as to jointly open up a bright and new future for the Arctic.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia, President Sauli Niinisto of Finland, and President Gudni Johannesson of Iceland attended and addressed the IAF plenary session. Over 2,000 representatives from political, business and academic circles of nearly 30 countries including the US, Canada, Finland, Denmark, Norway, Iceland and other countries attended the forum.

On March 29, Wang Yang and Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin held Chairmen Meeting of Committee of China-Russia Prime Ministers' Regular Meeting. Both sides spoke positively of the outcomes from the development of bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination, and exchanged in-depth views on further enhancing practical cooperation in such areas as the Arctic, nuclear energy, agriculture, and civil aviation.