YUZHNO-SAKHALINSK, August 12. /TASS/. Tensions are rising not only in the Asia-Pacific region, but also in the neighboring Arctic region, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.

The Russian president noted that the potential for conflict is on the rise in the Asia-Pacific region.

"By the way, tensions are also mounting in the neighboring Arctic zone, already mentioned here, regarding the use of the Northern Sea Route. But Russia has always advocated, and continues to confirm its readiness to cooperate in the Arctic and the use of the Northern Sea Route. Of course, within the framework of existing international maritime law," Putin said while attending the Pacific Fleet exercises.