China Moves on Antarctica

Slate highlights China's increased presence in the frozen southlands:

A New York Times piece Monday reports on China’s pursuit of Antarctica’s “resource potential” via the expansion of its research and tourism presence on the continent—moves made with an eye toward establishing a sphere of influence that could become advantageous if and when bans on Antarctic military and mining activity are lifted.

 

Recent indicators of the Asian superpower’s interest in the area include the expansion of nearby krill fishing and a deal with the Australian government to facilitate the resupply of southbound Chinese ships and (potentially, down the line) airplanes. China has two permanent research stations in Antarctica; by comparison, the United States has three and Argentina has six.

 

(Pic: China's Great Wall research station)