Space Cooperation: China-France collaboration sets a good example

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Europe

02:25

The successful launch of the first ever China-France oceanography satellite is expected to turn a new page for space cooperation between the two countries. CGTN's Wu Lei talked with senior officials from the Chinese and French space programs and bring us more on their future plans.

France has been a major power in space programs like the study of ocean waves. While China has expertise in ocean wind monitoring and space launches. Since 2005, China and France decided to join hands and start this innovative cooperation, and to clear all the problems and difficulties takes more than time.

ZHAO JIAN, DEPUTY DIRECTOR CHINA NATIONAL SPACE ADMINISTRATION "In addition to different habits and cultural backgrounds, Chinese and French scientists also have different technical standards and working procedures. It always requires us to find solutions that satisfy both sides."

The joint satellite is expected to provide crucial observations for forecasting and digital modeling of the ocean-atmosphere system. France and China, both key leaders of the Paris Climate Accord, show their determination and commitment for tackling climate change.

According to the plan, China will continue to work with France to launch a new space science probe around 2021, which is expected to study Gamma Ray Bursts—the most powerful explosions in the universe.

WU YANHUA, DEPUTY DIRECTOR CHINA NATIONAL SPACE ADMINISTRATION "It is always the basic state policy to have global space cooperation. We have signed space cooperation deals with over 30 countries and dozens of global organizations."

WU LEI JIUQUAN SATELLITE LAUNCH CENTER "China plans to enhance its cooperation with other countries in projects like manned space missions, rocket launches and deep space exploration in the years to come. WL, CGTN at the JIUQUAN satellite launch center."