The Biden administration announced Friday that it will increase its involvement with the Arctic Council and countries having an interest in a rapidly changing region owing to climate change.
The United States will appoint an ambassador-at-large for the Arctic to deal with national security, environmental, and development challenges in the far north, according to the State Department. The United States has had an Arctic coordinator for many years, but the strengthened position may give the job fresh life.
President Joe Biden intentionally proposes to elevate the Arctic Coordinator position by designating an Ambassador-at-Large for the Arctic Region, subject to Senate advice and consent.
The announcement on Friday did not include a nomination for the position.
Warming oceans have reduced ice covering and opened new trade paths in recent years, making the Arctic a hive of activity. Russia, in particular, has prioritized the Arctic, which has alarmed the United States. While China is not an Arctic nation, it has made movements in the region.
