Belgian Minister in Antarctica

In November 2004, the New Zealand government hosted the Belgian Federal Minister for Science Policy, Mr Marc Verwilghen at the Antarctic Research station, Scott Base, in McMurdo Sound. Alain Hubert of the IPF accompanied Mr Verwilghen on this trip, and was impressed by the efficient running of NZ Antarctic operations.

He said that he had learnt much of interest for the future logistical operations and scientific research to be carried out to support the proposed Belgian research Station in the Dronning Maud Land.

The Belgian delegation expressed their heartfelt thanks to their New Zealand hosts (Antarctica New Zealand), and the Minister for Science for the welcome they had been accorded.