MOSCOW, May 7 (RIA Novosti) - The US believes the Arctic presents ever-growing possibilities for development and exploration of new sea routes, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, adding that Washington sees the Arctic as a potential conflict zone.
"The melting of gigantic ice caps presents possibilities for the opening of new sea lanes and the exploration for natural resources, energy and commerce, also with the dangerous potential for conflict in the Arctic," Hagel said at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs on Tuesday.
"The Defense Department is bolstering its engagement in the Arctic and looking at what capabilities we need to operate there in the future," Defense Secretary added.
Arctic territories are believed to hold vast untapped reserves of oil and gas. The territories have recently been at the center of disputes between the United States, Russia, Canada, Norway and Denmark as rising temperatures have led to a rapid melting of ice caps and made energy reserves more accessible.
Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated on April 22 that Russia is also actively engaged in the Arctic region to protect its national security and economic interests.
Russian Defense Ministry has already announced plans to reopen airfields and ports on the New Siberian Islands and the Franz Josef Land archipelago, as well as at least seven airstrips on the continental part of the Arctic Circle that were mothballed in 1993.
