№ 1379. The 50th anniversary of the Antarctic Treaty.

        In 2009 the Antarctic Treaty celebrates its 50th anniversary. The document came into force on December 1st, 1959 after its ratification by 12 countries - first members. The main purpose of the Treaty - to ensure the peaceful exploration of Antarctica to the benefit of the whole mankind; it provides the freedom of scientific researches and promotes international cooperation.

The stamp presents the attributes of Russian Antarctic investigations – cross-country vehicle "Kharkovchanka-2", weather balloon, solar battery, automatic weather station - on the background of the contours of the Antarctic Region and the flag of the Russian Federation .