The Arctic as a constantly evolving multidimensional space
The author analyzes the main approaches to the multidimensionality of the Arctic and the factors that enhance the role of the Arctic in modern conditions. Special attention is paid to the research made by NArFU (Yu.F. Lukin) and the Institute of Europe of RAS (N.M. Antyushina). In conclusion the author underlines the need for systematic work on the Arctic consciousness and involvement of the Russian citizens in the Arctic affairs. Along with the analysis of the growing role of Russia and the European countries in the Arctic, the article is concerned with cooperation between Russia and China. It is revealed that Beijing's current foreign policy in the Arctic is productive, businesslike, benevolent and long-term for Russia. The emerging problems and difficulties are resolving through negotiations on a mutually beneficial basis. It is also concluded that the presence of large Asian states in the Arctic Council leads to a deescalate tensions due to disagreements between Russia and the West over the situation in Syria and Ukraine. The author tried to determine the level of militarization in the Arctic and its impact on the possibility of conflicts in the region. It is concluded that in modern conditions a long-term Arctic megaproject could become a powerful Arctic consolidation factor. In the article, the author uses methods of political science and humanities: comparative analysis, historical approach, institutional and prognostic methods, incl. the analysis of possible scenarios for the further development of the Arctic Council by Yu.F. Lukin.