BEIJING - China published a white paper on its Arctic policy Friday, pledging to seize opportunities and face challenges in the region together with all concerned parties.

"China, as a responsible major country, is ready to cooperate with all relevant parties to seize the historic opportunity in the development of the Arctic, to address the challenges brought by the changes in the region," said the white paper issued by the State Council Information Office.

The country would like to "jointly understand, protect, develop and participate in the governance of the Arctic, and advance Arctic-related cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative," so as to build a community with a shared future for mankind and contribute to peace, stability and sustainable development in the Arctic, according to the white paper.