President Biden to name Arctic ambassador

President Biden will create a new ambassador to manage US interests in the Arctic, as global climate change makes the region increasingly accessible to energy exploration.

The job calls for advancing US policy in the region, engaging with Indigenous groups, state, local and tribal governments and others, the State Department said in a news release.

“As one of eight Arctic nations, the United States has long been committed to protecting our national security and economic interests in the region, combating climate change, fostering sustainable development and investment, and promoting cooperation with Arctic States, Allies, and partners,” the State Department noted.

The announcement upgrades the current US Arctic coordinator job and comes at a time of increased regional tension, with several other nations also angling for an advantage as ice in the area melts.

Russia, which has a long Arctic coastline, has already moved aggressively to stake claims in the region amid new sea lanes which have opened due to receding ice. China has also billed itself a “near-Arctic state” and has been looking to expand its footprint in the region.