China is to commence its first global oceanic research project
in early April.
The China State Oceanic Administration says the main objectives
of the research project include investigating underwater mineral
resources, how life on the seabed is influenced by extreme
conditions and the overall oceanic environment.
Wang Fei, vice minister of the State Oceanic Administration points
out the exploration will do a great deal to increase the level of
China's marine research.
“The exploration will allow us to fill gaps in our understanding
about unknown regions of the vast expanse of the ocean. Our final
goal is to clarify the conditions of Chinese sea, set foot in the
Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans and step onto
Antarctica."
The scientific exploration ship will set sail from China's east
port city of Qingdao on April 2 and start its 300-day global
scientific voyage across the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian
oceans.
(CRI March 27, 2005)