China's first domestically built polar icebreaker, Xuelong 2, arrived in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Monday for a five-day visit. This marks the maiden appearance of Xuelong 2 in HKSAR after completing its latest Antarctic expedition.
Docking at Ocean Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui, Xuelong 2 was warmly welcomed by John Lee, chief executive of the HKSAR. Lee highlighted that Xuelong 2 embodies key technologies and innovations essential for polar expeditions. He emphasized that the icebreaker's first stop in Hong Kong allows the Antarctic expedition team to share their scientific research and achievements with the public, underscoring the central government's support for HKSAR.
Sun Shuxian, deputy minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources, reminisced about the historic visit of China's polar research vessel Xuelong to Hong Kong in October 2004 during the nation's 21st Antarctic expedition. Sun expressed optimism that, two decades later, Xuelong 2 would further enhance scientific exchanges and cooperation between mainland research institutions and those in Hong Kong.
Zhang Beichen, chief scientist of China's 40th Antarctic expedition, shared insights into the mission's success. Departing from Shanghai on November 1, 2023, the expedition team completed various tasks over 161 days, traversing more than 81,000 nautical miles. The achievements of Xuelong 2 and its crew highlight China's commitment to advancing polar research and fostering international scientific collaboration.
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China's 1st domestically built polar icebreaker Xuelong 2 visits HKSAR
cgtn.com
