Chile plans to reopen a naval base in Antarctica in 2008, firmly marking its territory on the frozen continent at a time when Britain plans to extend its claim there by 1 million square kilometers. In Santiago, Senator Roberto Munoz said after meetings with Chile's navy chief that the dilapidated Arturo Prat base on Greenwich Island-closed five years ago due to budget problems-would be reopened early next year. “The budget will be approved now, in November, and the funds will be channeled automatically, especially with these announcements from other countries about increasing their territory in Antarctica,” Munoz told Reuters on Wednesday. He said the plan had the backing of all political parties as well as the military. Britain announced a plan last week to increase its Antarctic claim ahead of a U.N. deadline of May 13, 2009 for nations to outline their claims on the continent. Chile said it will stand by its claims to Antarctica despite the British bid. Antarctica is thought to hold natural resources such as oil and gas, but all claims to the territory are theoretical because it is protected by the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, which prevents mineral exploitation on the continent except for scientific research. The Arturo Prat naval base, named after Chile's greatest naval hero, will be operated along with Chile's Antarctic Institute and will host a research center.
