International News
World’s Antarctic Research HQ Moves to New Zealand
Saturday, 30 May 2009
The global organization responsible for co-ordinating the Antarctic research activities of 29 nations is shifting from Australia's Hobart to the University of Canterbury in the city of Christchurch. The international secretariat of the Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs (Comnap) will be based at Canterbury University's Gateway Antarctica research center.
(via University of Canterbury) Acquisition of the research coordination at Canterbury came just as the university starts promoting increased political scrutiny of the signatories to the Antarctic Treaty, which include China, Russia, the United States, Britain and India.
Signed in Washington in 1959, the treaty established Antarctica- - the world's fifth largest continent -- as a region of peace and cooperation, but has become a bone of contention as nations have eyed a wealth of valuable resources.
Michelle Rogan-Finnemore, Gateway Antarctica's center manager, has also been appointed as the Comnap executive secretary, and will take up the role on July 1.
UC Vice-Chancellor Dr Rod Carr says Gateway Antarctica has the expertise to be a very successful secretariat host.
“This is great news not just for the University of Canterbury - it is also great news for New Zealand. Having the secretariat based here will help raise awareness of Antarctic issues and the importance of science.”
Gateway Antarctica Director Professor Bryan Storey says hosting the COMNAP international secretariat will be a very exciting development for Gateway Antarctica.
“It truly establishes us as an international centre that will strengthen existing international connections and develop new relationships with the many countries involved in Antarctic research. It is excellent news for the city of Christchurch and reinforces the city’s position as a key gateway city to Antarctica.”
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