China lodges plans for new Antarctic station at Marie Byrd Land but says no ‘geopolitical motive’ behind expansion

News Snapshot:

China says there is no "geopolitical motive" behind the ongoing expansion of its operations in Antarctica, including newly lodged plans for a seasonal station on the icy continent. More than 50 countries operate research bases across Antarctica, including Australia, which has three permanent stations. China, which established its first permanent station in 1985, has grown its footprint to five research bases. China has five research bases across Antarctica. (ABC News: Magie Khameneh) The most recent was Qinling Station, which attracted concerns from some security and polar analysts when it opened last year. China has now submitted a draft environmental evaluation...