Chinese icebreaking research vessel Xue Long (Snow Dragon), Photo by Bahnfrend
Found an interesting post regarding China’s interest in the Arctic, considering the Northern Sea Route near Russia a part of their Belt and Road Initiative. Apparently the Russians are supporting the move.
“…China formally incorporated the Arctic into its plans for maritime cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, also sometimes called One Belt, One Road. The Vision for Maritime Cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, released on June 20 by China’s National Development and Reform Commission and the State Oceanic Administration, explains that a “blue economic passage” is “envisioned leading up to Europe via the Arctic Ocean.””
Of course they also want to exploit the resources. Cooperatively. In a sustainable fashion. Like they have done elsewhere.
Chuck Hill's CG Blog 
More on the increasing closeness of China and Russia http://cimsec.org/pla-navy-baltic-sea-view-kiel/33526
From German Navy blog “Marine Forum,”:
“31 Aug. Chinese research icebreaker „Xue Long“ in its first ever voyage through the Canadian Northwest Passage. (rmks: prob. also exploring feasibility of shipping cargo over the top of Canada)”
Unescorted LNG tanker/icebreaker makes transit from Russia to Bering Strait. https://www.marinelink.com/news/vladimir-rusanov-completes-first-eastern-439387