China Aerospace Foundation and Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization Sign Cooperation MOU

China Aerospace Foundation and Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization Sign Cooperation MOU
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Jul 12, 2023

The China Aerospace Foundation and the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization have solidified their commitment to collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at the headquarters of the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization. The event saw the presence of esteemed leaders such as Li Guoping, Chief Engineer of China National Space Administration, Wu Zhijian, Chairman of China Aerospace Foundation, Hou Xiufeng, Vice Chairman, and Yu Qi, Secretary-General of Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization. The signing ceremony was chaired by Wang Cheng, Secretary-General of China Aerospace Foundation, and Ferhat Fikri Ozeren, Deputy Secretary-General of Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization.

Li Guoping, in his speech, highlighted the National Space Administration's support for the China Aerospace Foundation's innovative cooperation models within the framework of the MOU. He emphasized the need to strengthen the development of training courses, international seminars, exchanges, youth training programs, and collaborations between China and the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization.

Li Guoping expressed the intention to collaborate on scholarships and other initiatives, aiming to create branded aerospace public welfare activities and infuse new vitality into the healthy development of the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization. The National Space Administration pledged to actively support the sustainable growth of the organization, expand talent training methods, and elevate the capacity building of member countries to new heights. This endeavor seeks to contribute wisdom and strength to the construction of a shared future for humanity and a better world.

Wu Zhijian, Chairman of China Aerospace Foundation, emphasized the organization's commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities under the guidance of the National Space Administration. Wu Zhijian acknowledged the favorable conditions and platform role of the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization, and expressed the foundation's dedication to facilitating the next generation of spaceflight activities.

These activities include popular science education, international aerospace forums, international cooperation strategy research, and multi-track diplomacy. By leveraging these initiatives, Wu Zhijian envisions enhancing the social and international influence of both parties. The collaborative efforts will enable space science and technology to stimulate economic and social development in various countries. Furthermore, through cooperation and exchanges, they aim to build consensus and a global partnership based on equality and mutual benefit, fostering the vigorous development of the human space industry.

Yu Qi, Secretary-General of the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization, underscored the organization's role as an intergovernmental body providing developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region with a cooperative mechanism and an open platform for the peaceful utilization of outer space.

Following the United Nations treaties and principles on outer space and resource sharing in space applications, APSCO promotes multilateral cooperation and capacity building among member states. Yu Qi expressed eagerness to engage in mutually beneficial cooperation with the China Aerospace Foundation, aiming to make significant contributions to the establishment of a community with a shared future for humanity.

The signing of the MOU between the China Aerospace Foundation and the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization marks a significant step in enhancing collaboration and fostering advancements in space exploration and technology. The memorandum sets the stage for joint efforts in training, knowledge sharing, and international cooperation, with the ultimate goal of promoting the peaceful and sustainable utilization of outer space for the benefit of all nations. As the global space industry continues to evolve, this partnership between China and the Asia-Pacific region holds promise for further advancements and breakthroughs in space science and technology.