NEWS
2025-03-25
AFoPS Strengthens Polar Collaboration at 2025 Special Meeting
March 22, 2025 | Boulder, USA
The Asian Forum for Polar Sciences (AFoPS) held its 34th Special Meeting in Boulder, USA, focusing on advancing regional cooperation and strategic initiatives in polar research.
Highlights Include:
1.Progress Updates: The Secretariat reported successful joint expeditions, including the JTRES program and Thailand’s participation in CHINARE-41, alongside plans to reengage observer nations like Indonesia and Vietnam.
2.IPY5 Roadmap: Members agreed to form a core working group to draft a framework for the 5th International Polar Year (IPY5), with virtual consultations ahead of September’s AGM.
3.Governance Reforms: Revised Terms of Reference for the Secretariat were proposed, emphasizing flexible collaboration mechanisms and majority-based decision-making.
4.Research Promotion: AFoPS will collaborate with Advances in Polar Science (APS) to publish a special issue in 2025, highlighting member contributions to global polar science.
India and Malaysia shared updates on national polar expeditions, showcasing advancements in climate and ecosystem studies.
Next AGM: Scheduled for September 19–20, 2025, in Goa, India, the meeting will prioritize IPY5 planning and policy dialogues.
AFoPS reaffirms its commitment to fostering innovation and unity in addressing polar challenges across Asia and beyond.
AFoPS Secretariat
March 25, 2025