Emerging space nations such as Azerbaijan are seeking closer cooperation with fast-growing space players like China. Dunay Badirkhanov, Acting Chair of the Board of Azercosmos (Space Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan), shared his insights with CGTN on the opening day of the 77th International Astronautical Congress in Antalya, Türkiye. IAC 2026 is organized by the International Astronautical Federation.