Chile, Argentina legislators meet in Antarctica

Posted on Thursday, 03.05.09
Chile, Argentina legislators meet in Antarctica
The Associated Press

SANTIAGO, Chile -- Lawmakers from Chile and Argentina are meeting in Antarctica to speak with a common voice against Britain's claim to oil and gas in the southernmost seas.

Chilean Congressman Renan Fuentealba says the South American countries support a 1959 treaty protecting the icy continent's fragile environment.

Chile, Argentina and Britain all claim rights over the same areas of Antarctica, which is important for more than the few scientists who live and work there: An international treaty says each nation can exploit undersea resources for hundreds of miles off their territory.

A United Nations commission will decide the issue by May.

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http://www.miamiherald.com/news/americas/story/934581.html