NAS Chairman suggests renaming Gora Vechernyaya Antarctic station into Belarusian station
During today’s meeting of the President with scientists and participants of the Belarusian Antarctic expeditions, Chairman of the Presidium of Belarus’ National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Vladimir Gusakov has proposed to rename the Gora [Mount] Vechernyaya Antarctic station into the Belarusian station
“The scientific results obtained in Antarctica are exclusive and fundamental. The global processes taking place on the icy continent primarily determine the climate of the planet and affect the conservation of its biodiversity,” Mr. Gusakov underlined.
According to the scientist, the Antarctic region boasts rich mineral and biological resources.
“Antarctica’s interior contains a significant amount of minerals (iron ore, coal, copper, nickel, lead, zinc, molybdenum and others). There is also information about proven oil and gas deposits,” the NAS Chairman added.
However, an international ban on hydrocarbon extraction is in force until 2049; the Antarctic Treaty defines the use of the region only for peaceful, scientific purposes.
At the end of his speech, Vladimir Gusakov thanked the President for the comprehensive support of the activities of polar explorers, “I ask you to consider the possibility of renaming our Gora Vechernyaya Antarctic station into the Belarusian station.”
