🇦🇶 Antarctica

Antarctica (ISO code: AQ) is the southernmost continent on Earth, located around the South Pole and surrounded by the Southern Ocean. Politically, it is internationally governed by the Antarctic Treaty, which freezes territorial claims and reserves the continent for peaceful and scientific purposes. The climate is extremely polar with low temperatures year-round, strong winds, and significant snowfall; the coastal regions are milder and partially ice-free in summer. Economically, there is no traditional industry, but the continent is of strategic importance for research, climate studies, and logistical operations in the Southern Ocean. Foreign trade is practically non-existent; all goods for research stations must be imported, primarily food, fuel, and technical equipment. Antarctica has a limited transit function for ship and air expeditions between South America, Australia, New Zealand, and research facilities. There is no national currency; international transactions are mostly conducted in US dollars or Euros. Logistical infrastructure consists of research stations, landing strips, ports, and supply ships that ensure the transport and storage of equipment. The geographical isolation and extreme climate make Antarctica a unique, highly sensitive location for science and international cooperation.