Chiang Mai: Chilean President Gabriel Boric has made a historic trip to the Antarctic region, or South Pole, to emphasize Chile’s sovereignty over the area.
According to Thai News Agency, Boric, 38, who has been the president since 2022, led an entourage of scientists, military commanders, and cabinet ministers to the Pole on January 3 for a two-day visit as part of Operation Polar Star III. This mission aims to monitor concentrations of natural and man-made pollutants in the Antarctic region, with a particular focus on carbon.
The Chilean leader arrived at the US-operated Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station and toured the facility. He reiterated Chile’s sovereignty over Antarctica, stating that the country would not tolerate any exploration of resources in the region, except for scientific and peaceful purposes.
In addition to Chile, six other countries claim Antarctic territory: Argentina, Australia, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom.