Abstract:

In the near future, it’s technically possible for the Arctic coastal countries (Russia, Denmark, Norway, Canada and the United States) to exploit the natural resources hidden in the Arctic region as the Arctic ice cap is melting rapidly. Geological structure of the Arctic continental shelf, the non-legally binding recommendation of the Commission on the limits of the Continental Shelf, the defects of the dispute settlement mechanism of UNCLOS as well as the fragile Arctic environment system jointly determined the delimitation of the continental shelf in the Arctic will be a complicated procedure. This article is mainly about the treaty law basis, legal issues and the Settlement Model of Delimiting the Arctic Outer Continental Shelf. The Arctic outer continental shelf issues are not only regional affairs, but also closely relating to China’s vital interests. In order to ensure China's sustainable and stable development of economy, we should pay more attention on the legal rights on natural resources in high seas. China is expected to influence the final settlement of the Arctic Outer Continental Shelf through active and stable legal methods in order to safeguard its own legitimate interests.

Key words: Settlement Model.