Officials from nearly 60 countries that are signatories to the Antarctic Treaty have begun annual meetings in Hiroshima to address protection and management of the region, with emperor penguins receiving particular attention.
The talks, which opened on May 12, bring together representatives to discuss ongoing efforts to safeguard Antarctica's environment.
Emperor penguins are a key topic amid concerns over climate change and other pressures on the continent.
The annual gathering also covers issues such as tourism and animal welfare in the fragile region.