„Dajia hao!“ This photo of a friendly seal was taken a few days ago by the Chinese icebreaker Xuelong 2, which is currently on an Antarctic expedition in the Amundsen Sea. The expedition aims to gain insights into the marine hydrology, climate and biological cycles of the Antarctic. China also wants to establish itself as a polar power with the research diplomacy of its „snow dragon.“ Global warming is making parts of the polar seas navigable for the first time. The Antarctic also contains oil and gas reserves.