China and Russia have recently inked an MoU (memorandum of understanding) to jointly construct an international lunar research station on the Moon’s surface or in its orbit. This project will become a comprehensive base for long-term and autonomous experiments in the future.
For the uninitiated, Russia has successfully accumulated high experiences in lunar exploration during the era of the Soviet Union and has developed a robust space technology. On the other hand, China is the latecomer in this lunar exploration race. Its spacecraft has completed a lunar mission and returned with moon surface samples to the Earth.
In order to ensure comprehensive strategic coordination for a new era for the long-term, both the countries will need to maintain their current stable political conditions. This cooperation to construct the lunar scientific research station will help strengthen the bilateral strategic mutual trust as well as promote comprehensive cooperation in several research fields. Moreover, the joint construction will also provide a new scope for international space exploration and boost internationalization.
The space research activity is still at an early stage. Due to its high costs and other related complexity, it has been mainly a focus for major powerful countries. These space experiences and knowledges can be enhanced via technological developments, funding sources, as well as adequate economic & political conditions.
The United States has been a leading player in space exploration activities and is planning to continue its momentum to lead the way in space regulations. Among these prominent countries, China and Russia need to be in the frontline in terms of space exploration and promote fairness to noticeably gain the power to decide on the space exploration rules.
The two countries are anticipating the smooth promotion and completion of the lunar scientific research station construction through their equal cooperation. This China-Russia cooperation will further stimulate other countries to indulge in greater international cooperation.
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https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202103/1217897.shtml