A delegation of scientists from the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute discussed joint research plans during a visit to China, the press service of the university reports.
The program of the official visit included meetings with the heads of the Chinese Arctic and Antarctic Administration, the Institute of Polar Research of China and the Oceanic University of China.
During the meetings, scientists discussed the implementation of joint projects in high latitudes. Chinese scientists have expressed interest in scientific cooperation. Representatives of the Chinese Arctic and Antarctic Administrations proposed to supplement the Memorandum of Cooperation in Antarctica with an agreement on joint work in the Arctic.
The heads of the Oceanic University of China and the Institute of Polar Research of China expressed interest in cooperation on scientific and educational programs and internships for young scientists. In order to develop this area, it is planned to hold a series of online consultations between scientists in the near future to search for promising areas of joint research.
"Without international cooperation, without mutual support and coordination, it is impossible to conduct large-scale scientific research and obtain truly breakthrough results. We have no preconceptions about the participation of foreign colleagues in our projects, we are open to dialogue," said Alexander Makarov, Director of the Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute.
Russian scientists presented one of the examples of possible future cooperation to their Chinese colleagues - the unique drifting science stations in the Arctic. Today, Russia is organizing a drifting station at a new technical level with the support of the ice-resistant North Pole platform.
The logistics capabilities of the Russian Antarctic Expedition piqued the interest of Chinese scientists. The new Zenit airfield is located in the immediate vicinity of the Chinese Antarctic station Zhongshan. Its use can significantly simplify the delivery of polar explorers and supplies to the Chinese station. Colleagues from China have also expressed interest in joint scientific research in Antarctica, rossaprimavera.ru notes.
Alex Shishlo for Rough&Polished
