BEIJING, April 12. /TASS/. Beijing pays special attention to space cooperation with Russia, as it is a driving force in the two countries’ economic development, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said.
"China pays much attention to cooperation with Russia in the space industry," she pointed out at a briefing, when asked by TASS about the Chinese authorities’ view of the potential and prospects for Moscow-Beijing cooperation in the field.
"Over the past years, China and Russia have been working together to boost cooperation, particularly in creating an international research station on the Moon. This facilitates the two countries’ social and economic development and promotes scientific and technical innovation," the Chinese diplomat added.
She pointed out that exploring the universe "is a common goal for the entire humanity." She noted that the Chinese government was consistently making efforts for the peaceful exploration of space.
"We are ready to develop space ties and cooperation with all countries, including Russia, based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and tolerance," Mao concluded.
On April 12, 1961, Soviet cosmonaut Yury Gagarin was the first human to go into space. Now this day is celebrated annually in Russia as Cosmonautics Day. It was established by a decree of the Presidium of the USSR Supreme Soviet on April 9, 1962 to commemorate the world's first flight into space by a Soviet man.