China welcomes observer status in Arctic Council

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei says China appreciates and welcomes the Arctic Council's decision to grant the country permanent observer status.

In a written statement, Hong said China supports the purpose and objectives of the Arctic Council. In accepting its observer status, China recognizes the Arctic countries' sovereignty and jurisdiction in the Arctic area, as well as their leading role in the Arctic Council.

The Council was founded nearly 20 years ago by the eight countries with territories in the Arctic -- Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and the United States.