BEIJING -- China stands ready to work with all parties to enhance exchanges and promote cooperation in polar affairs, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Thursday, adding that peace, stability and sustainable development of the polar regions serve the common interests of the entire humanity.

Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a regular press briefing when asked to comment on some heartwarming episodes that happened during China's ongoing 42nd Antarctic expedition.

According to reports, China's expedition team successfully rescued a sick staff member from a Russian research station, and this week, while replenishing supplies in New Zealand, China's research icebreaker Xuelong assisted in transporting researchers from the Republic of Korea.

Mao said that over the past 40 years since China initiated its Antarctic expeditions, it has consistently upheld the spirit of mutual assistance and attached great importance to international cooperation, engaging in various forms of joint research activities.

She noted that the ongoing Antarctic expedition involves researchers from more than ten countries and regions, such as Thailand, Chile and Portugal.

Regarding the Arctic, Mao added that China has participated in the Arctic Council, hosted the China-Nordic Arctic cooperation symposium and conducted scientific expeditions in the Arctic Ocean, providing dialogue and cooperation platforms and sharing research outcomes with the international community.