Final answer:
The Spitsbergen Treaty, also known as the Svalbard Treaty, is an international agreement signed in 1920 that grants Norway sovereignty over the Svalbard archipelago. It allows signatory countries equal rights for commercial activities while ensuring environmental protection. The treaty promotes peaceful cooperation and scientific research in the area.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Spitsbergen Treaty, also known as the Svalbard Treaty, is an international agreement signed in 1920. It grants Norway sovereignty over the Svalbard archipelago, including the main island of Spitsbergen. The treaty also stipulates that all signatory countries have equal rights to engage in commercial activities, including mining, fishing, and tourism, while ensuring the protection of the natural environment.
One of the key objectives of the treaty is to foster peaceful cooperation and scientific research in the region. It prohibits any militarization of the area and grants territorial rights solely for non-military purposes. The Spitsbergen Treaty is an important example of international cooperation in the Arctic and has played a significant role in governing the activities in the Svalbard region.