China Makes Polar Plunge in Brazen Land-Grab as It Eyes Expansion to Antarctica

On the other side of the world, China is expanding its footprint in Antarctica to become a “polar great power” by the end of the decade.

“China has an interest in being seen as an important player in all kinds of regions,” said Jacob Stokes, a senior fellow with the Indo-Pacific Security Program at the Washington-based Center for a New American Security. “Its ability to operate in [the polar regions] is ‘world-class’ if not ‘world-leading.’”

Beijing’s national security law has created a legal framework to exercise its claims. China is increasing its presence in Antarctica through scientific projects, commercial ventures and infrastructure investments.

Read the full story and more from The Washington Times.