The first Cooperation Forum Space Conference of the States of China, Latin America, and the Caribbean was held in Wuhan, where agreements were reached on collaborating on lunar and deep universe exploration projects, supporting the United Nations Organization on outer space, and promoting the application of aerospace technologies. The Wuhan Declaration, consisting of seven points, aims to support member countries of Celac, including Mexico, by establishing an information center, sharing solutions in science, technology, applications, education, and training, and promoting high-quality debate on space-related topics.
The declaration also supports the application of satellite communications, navigation, Earth observation technologies, and focuses on environmental protection, agriculture, forestry, water conservation, disaster prevention and mitigation, among other areas. It emphasizes promoting space cooperation between agencies and research institutes, participating in consultations on international standards for outer space, and establishing a long-term staff training mechanism. Additionally, the countries agreed to defend the central role of the United Nations Organization in outer space matters and to comply with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals related to space and climate change.
The declaration is based on the principles governing the exploration and use of outer space, including the Moon and other celestial bodies, adopted in 1967. China and the Celac countries are interested in peaceful uses of space technology and have signed cooperation agreements with countries like Brazil, Venezuela, and Bolivia. During the forum, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed high expectations for space cooperation with Latin American and Caribbean countries, and Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing highlighted the importance of strengthening development strategies, cooperation in scientific and technological innovation, and talent exchanges.
The forum was part of China’s Space Day celebrations and commemorated the launch of its first satellite, Dongfanghong-1, into space in 1970. The event was attended by representatives from various countries and organizations, discussing the future of space collaboration and the peaceful uses of space technology.