Chilean President Boric Makes Historic Visit to the South Pole

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Chilean President Gabriel Boric has embarked on a groundbreaking journey to the South Pole, marking him as the first Latin American leader to visit this remote location. The trip, which took place on January 4, 2025, serves to reinforce Chile’s claim to sovereignty over its section of Antarctica. Boric described the visit as a significant milestone in Chile's Antarctic mission.

Accompanied by his defense and environment ministers, along with military officials, Boric arrived at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station—an American research facility—at 8 pm GMT. He is scheduled to spend approximately two hours at the station during this notable visit.

The trip underscores Chile's commitment to expanding its scientific efforts in Antarctica, particularly in the Bellingshausen and Weddell Seas, areas previously underexplored by the country. Historically, territorial claims in Antarctica have been contentious, with several nations, including Chile, asserting their rights despite a lack of international recognition for such claims.

Boric began his journey from Punta Arenas, Chile, and reached the Antarctic region via a Hercules C-130 military transport plane. His administration views this expedition as a pivotal moment for Chile’s scientific ambitions in a region governed by the Antarctic Treaty since 1961, aimed at fostering cooperation and limiting geopolitical conflicts.

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