President Gabriel Boric has made history as the first leader in the Americas to visit the South Pole.
The milestone visit to the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station reaffirmed Chile’s claim to Antarctic sovereignty and highlighted the nation’s growing commitment to scientific exploration and climate change research.
“This is a milestone for us,” Boric said on Chilean television. “It’s the first time a Chilean president has come to the South Pole and talked about Chile’s Antarctic mission.”
Accompanied by scientists and cabinet ministers for defense and the environment, Boric emphasized Chile’s determination to lead global Antarctic research initiatives. His office described the visit as a testament to Chile’s ambition to be the world’s gateway to the Antarctic.
Only two other world leaders, New Zealand and Norway’s prime ministers, had visited the South Pole before Boric.
The Antarctic Treaty, established in 1961, preserves the continent as a scientific haven devoid of government or indigenous populations. Chile, alongside other nations, has long claimed portions of Antarctica, contributing to ongoing diplomatic and scientific collaborations in the region.
Chioma Kalu
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