Summary
U.S. officials inspected a Chinese research station in Antarctica for the first time in six years to ensure all activities there remain peaceful, as agreed under the Antarctic Treaty. The inspection reflects concerns over potential military usage of these stations by China.
Key Facts
- The U.S. conducted an inspection of a Chinese Antarctic research station in January 2024.
- The visit was part of the U.S. keeping track of international activities in both the North and South Poles.
- Concerns include potential military uses of research stations by China.
- U.S. officials from the Department of State, National Science Foundation, and Department of War participated.
- This inspection was allowed under the Antarctic Treaty, which promotes peaceful and scientific use of the continent.
- The team checked not only China's Zhongshan station but also stations from Australia, India, and Russia.
- The findings of the trip will be shared at a meeting in Hiroshima, Japan, in May.
- Australia and New Zealand helped with logistics for the inspection trip.
