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China fosters Space Co-op
China has announced it will actively enhance multilateral co-operation in space technology and applications in the Asia-Pacific region.
The country will also give support to its space enterprises so it can provide international commercial launch services.
According to the English-language newspaper China Daily reports, these will be priorities dictating international co-operation over the coming 10 years, according to an official with the China National Space Administration (CNSA).
In addition, China, one of the few countries involved in space research, will support other developing countries by using its more advanced technology to provide services to partner countries on the basis of mutual benefit.
"China persistently supports activities involving the peaceful use of space and maintains that international space co-operation should be promoted and strengthened on the basis of equality, mutual benefit and common development," said Luo Ge, director-general of the department of foreign affairs under the CNSA.
"The aim of international space co-operation is to peacefully develop and use its resources for the benefit of all mankind," Luo said.
Space co-operation will increase the capability for space development in many countries, particularly developing countries, and enable them to enjoy the benefits of space technology, Luo said.
He listed international exchanges and co-operation on projects such as environmental monitoring, space exploration, and studies into micro-gravity science, space physics and astronomy as important areas.
China's participation in international space co-operation started in the mid-1970s. During the last two decades, the country has been a part of bilateral, regional, multilateral and international co-operation schemes in different forms. It has been involved in commercial launch services.
"In co-operation projects, international agreements are always our guide," Luo said.
He said China always showed a deep respect for the fundamental principles listed in the "Declaration on International Co-operation on Exploring and Utilizing Outer Space for the Benefits and Interests of All Countries, Especially in Consideration of Developing Countries' Demands," which was approved by the 51st General Assembly of the United Nations in 1996.
The function of the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs should be consolidated, Luo said.
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