KIRKENES, Norway, Feb. 23 (Xinhua) -- Norwegian politicians and business leaders discussed the prospect of opening up a new navigation route and enhancing infrastructure in Northern Norway at the two-day Kirkenes Conference that concluded on Thursday.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store mentioned the possible accelerated timeline for opening up the Northern Sea Route given the impacts of climate change on maritime navigation.

"A few years ago, it was predicted that the sea route would be opened late in this century. Now, climate change has made that very different. There can be commercial sailing already in the years to come. And for that to be safe sailing, we need also updated, reliable infrastructure," Store told Xinhua.

Magnus Maeland, mayor of Sor-Varanger municipality where the conference was held, advocated for comprehensive investment in the area's infrastructure. "Both military and civil infrastructural enhancements are critical for us," he said.

Some participants also called for further international cooperation, including with China, in various fields,

Rune Rafaelsen, former mayor of Sor-Varanger, highlighted the untapped potential for tourism and industrial cooperation with China and other countries, advocating for a multifaceted approach to regional development that includes cultural exchanges, sustainable resource management, and infrastructure projects.

"The possibilities for cooperation are boundless, provided we engage in respectful dialogue and adhere to laws and regulations. This region can become a linchpin in international trade and cultural exchange with the right partnerships and legal frameworks," Rafaelsen said.

"Business with Chinese companies must be welcomed. We've had visits from several delegations from China talking about a lot of different industries with interest in establishing business in Kirkenes," said Terje Jorgensen, director of the Kirkenes Port.

The Kirkenes Conference is an annual event held in Kirkenes, Norway, since 2008. It serves as a platform for discussions and dialogue on various developmental facets within Northern Norway and its adjacent regions. Enditem

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