The 2026 International Deep Space Exploration Conference opened on Thursday in Hefei, Anhui Province. At the opening ceremony, the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory, together with international institutions, unveiled the Moon Village Center - China and four joint laboratories. 

Bringing together Chinese and international researchers, these laboratories will tackle key challenges in deep‑space exploration. The conference, with participants coming from over 40 countries, come as China keeps advancing international collaboration for space exploration. 

Driss El Hadani, Deputy Director of United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs told CGTN why such cooperation carries special significance amid growing space‑related activities.