More than 400 global guests are attending the 2nd International Deep Space Exploration Conference in Huangshan, in East China's Anhui Province. China's National Space Agency and its counterpart in Senegal signed an agreement on International Lunar Research Station cooperation.

10 new international institutions also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China's Deep Space Exploration Laboratory on Wednesday's opening ceremony.

The International Lunar Research Station is a scientific experimental facility focusing on the lunar surface, sections of the lunar orbit and Earth. 

PROF. LUKA POPOVIC Director, Belgrade Astronomical Observatory "We would like to participate in this project. First of all, some examples, the astronomical observatory is working in the pure science, and the lunar station gives an opportunity to develop our capacity in the space science and technology."

DR. ADRIANA MARAIS Director, Foundation for Space Development Africa "And we are really excited to be here today to sign as a member of the International Lunar Research Station. It's a very exciting moment for Africa and to be partnering with China in this very exciting time for the entire planet in space exploration as we prepare to have permanent human habitation on the surface of the moon."

PROF. WIPHU RUJOPAKARN Deputy Director, NARIT "So, we are looking forward to the next step of the cooperation that the Thai payload will land on the surface of the moon with the Chinese spacecraft touching down on the surface of the moon, (which) will be very significant, not just from the scientific standpoint but also to inspire countless of children and students in the country."