Chinese icebreaker sails to Atlantic Ocean and back via Arctic route, marking first for China

[phantom power]

BEIJING — A Chinese icebreaker docked Thursday at Shanghai after becoming the first vessel from China to cross the Arctic Ocean, a landmark trip that is part of Beijing’s efforts to expand its presence in the Arctic.

With melting icecaps accelerating the opening of new shipping routes and the exploration of oil, gas and mineral deposits in the Arctic, China has been eager to gain a foothold in the region.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/chinese-icebreaker-sails-to-atlantic-ocean-and-back-via-artic-route-marking-first-for-china/2012/09/27/3ddef6f8-0876-11e2-9eea-333857f6a7bd_story.html

[dipsydoodle]

1. Notwithstanding other issues

presumably if it becomes easier to use an Arctic crossing that will affect the economics of the Panama Canal.

[phantom power]

2. It seems like it would have to have some impact

[Ghost Dog]

3. Absolutely.

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