Question

Mention the names of two countries who claim sovereignty on Antarctica.

Hint:

Remember that the Antarctic Treaty System does not recognize, dispute, or establish territorial sovereignty claims; it effectively freezes them. This allows all countries to conduct peaceful scientific research anywhere on the continent.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Antarctica is the Earth's southernmost continent. Although it is not owned by any one nation, several countries have made territorial claims to parts of it, often based on historical discovery or geographical proximity.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
There are seven countries that have made official territorial claims in Antarctica. These claims are currently suspended under the Antarctic Treaty of 1959, which sets aside the continent as a scientific preserve.
Two examples from the seven claimant countries are:
1. Australia: Claims the largest portion of Antarctica, known as the Australian Antarctic Territory.
2. Argentina: Claims a sector of Antarctica that overlaps with claims made by the UK and Chile.
The other five claimant nations are Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Two countries that claim sovereignty over parts of Antarctica are Australia and Argentina.