China - cooperation with Norway in SEA level observation -Evaluation of Chinese Tide Gauge Network based on ESEAS quality control standards

Cooperation in sea level observations between Norway and China will open a new area for research and cooperation. The importance of such cooperation lies in the common interests two countries have and are looking for. Although Norway is a small country co mpared to the size of China, it has a longer coastal line and a very long history in observing changes of sea level by different tide gauges along its coastal lines. For China, those coastal lines regions play an important role in their economy developmen t and population distribution. Although Norway is far away from China by distance, it is situated on a geographical position, which can contribute to global climate changes. In this context, the climate change from Norway and North Sea region to China has been drawn very much attention from Chinese authorities, as well as the academic community. Sea level rising becomes equally obvious phenomenon as the global warming does. Quality control in sea level observation is critical and fundamental part of le ading quality-assured data services not only for research but also for marine applications. China has started a 5-year project to establish a national tide gauge network. As a result of the project, China will open more tide gauges to the international co mmunities for research and cooperation. However, there are many steps to go in order to achieve this goal based on current status of tide gauges in China. China is facing difficulties and challenges. Norway has developed the competence to help and coopera te with China in order to discover more topics for further study in the field. Therefore, an evaluation based on European standards to the current tide gauges for China to meet the difficulties and challenges are defined as major tasks of the project. In addition, network building between Chinese and Norwegian partnership will strength a long term cooperation.