(Business Daily Update via NewsEdge) China is seeking to strengthen cooperation with the international space industry, aiming for the peaceful development of space projects, according to a senior Chinese official.
Jin Zhuanglong, deputy director of the Commission of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense, said China would also seek to expand its share of the international market for satellite launches and other space services.
He said China had already signed 16 pacts with 13 governments and organizations and established space industry cooperation with more than 40 countries and international organizations.
Specifically, he said China would deepen cooperation with Russia, the Ukraine and other European countries, as well as South American countries such as Argentina, Chile and Peru. In Asia, it would work towards the establishment of the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization, which would be based in Beijing.
China, Pakistan, Peru and six other countries had signed a treaty on the organization's establishment last year, and it would take effect upon ratification by five members.
© 2006 Business Daily Update