Article Posted on : - Aug 19, 2011

A file photo.

BEIJING (PTI): China said it is keen to step up cooperation with Russia in the aerospace sector, especially in manned space flight and deep space exploration programmes.

Yin Liming, president of the China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC), said his company has kept extensive contacts with Russia's federal space agency Roscosmos and major aerospace enterprises in recent years, as the two countries are seeking closers ties in the field.

In accordance with the 2010-2012 China-Russia Space Cooperation Outline, China and Russia will continue to strengthen their cooperation in the field, in particular in the creation of a satellite navigation system, joint deep space research, moon exploration and manned space missions, Yin currently attending the Moscow air show told state run Xinhua news agency.

"China and Russia have great opportunities for deeper cooperation. We can jointly implement space projects for scientific and peaceful purposes," Yin said.

On the prospects of manned space programmes, Yin said China, which has already successfully launched its self-developed Shenzhou manned spacecraft, would delve into the development of space labs and space stations.

But to achieve this goal, China needs more international cooperation and coordination, Yin said, adding that leading countries including Russia should be more open in technology sharing.

Established in 1980, the CGWIC is the sole commercial organisation authorised by the Chinese government to provide satellites and commercial launch services and to carry out international space cooperation.