China and Chile wrap up Atacama Trench mission as US pressure mounts

The joint mission to one of the deepest ocean trenches – which runs parallel to the coasts of Peru and Chile – took place from January 19 to March 5. Washington has in recent months raised concerns over China’s collaborations with South American countries, saying they could also have military purposes. Tensions escalated over the Humboldt submarine fibre-optic cable that will connect South America with Asia, resulting in Washington revoking visas for Chilean diplomats linked to the project. Chinese state-owned research vessel Tan Suo Yi Hao hosted the Atacama Trench expedition and its operations were closely monitored by the Chilean…