Chile and Norway signed a memorandum of understanding on Antarctic cooperation Monday, reinforcing their shared commitment to peace, science, and environmental protection in the region.
The agreement, signed by Chilean Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren and Norwegian Minister of International Development Åsmund Grøver, aims to strengthen bilateral coordination under the Antarctic Treaty System. It outlines enhanced collaboration on scientific research, climate monitoring, and the preservation of marine ecosystems through frameworks such as the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings and the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR).
The accord includes provisions for regular dialogue between scientific and governmental institutions in both countries and seeks to optimize joint efforts in Antarctic and sub-Antarctic research. Both nations also pledged support for the Polar Code’s implementation, aiming to improve safety and environmental standards for ships operating in polar waters.
Operational and logistical cooperation between Chile’s and Norway’s national Antarctic programs will also be explored, particularly in alignment with CCAMLR’s conservation objectives.
This renewed alliance builds on the long-standing historical ties between the two nations and reaffirms their role as active stewards of one of the world’s most fragile and strategically vital environments.
