Antarctica (Photo : Reuters)
China has recently constructed new outposts and research stations on the icy continent Antarctica. In addition to scientific missions, this could be due to the huge natural resources of freshwater, marine life, and oil there.
China's president Xi Jinping recently traveled to a region near the coast of Antarctica during the fall of 2014. Xi told reporters while standing on an icebreaker that his nation would expand its operations near and on the White Continent.
China recently signed a new agreement with Australia's government. It allows China's planes and ships to buy supplies such as fuel from their island country, according to Tech Times.
Lately China has been conducting more scientific research on Antarctica while the United States and Australia have been doing less due to lacking funds. Some Americans are concerned about China's intentions in studying Antarctica.
The 1959 Antarctic Treaty forbids military activities on the continent. Meanwhile, a second pact prohibits mining on Antarctica.
Wildlife on Antarctica could interest China. The country has a huge population of almost 1.36 billion.
Liu Shenli, China National Agricultural Development Group's chairman said that China will increase its Antarctic investments for "krill fishing." The tiny animals can be processed into food and medications.
Several varieties of krill and fish exist on and around Antarctica. A total of about 10,000 species of animals call the continent their home.
China provides Australia researchers with resources and equipment. However, Peter Jennings, a past Australian Department of Defense official, says that China's "long term" goals are to secure food and energy supplies.
Currently China has two permanent research stations on the White Continent, according to Slate. In contrast, the U.S. has three such structures.
China created its first Antarctic scientific outpost in 1985. Its most recent one was established in 2014.
