Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun. Courtesy: Global Times
China has said outer space should not be treated as a battleground for geopolitical competition, emphasizing a more collaborative approach to exploration. The statement comes as global space activity accelerates, with countries and private players expanding missions, forming alliances, and competing for influence beyond Earth.
Speaking at a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said China aims to build an open “friend circle” in space by working with international partners. The remarks coincided with the 11th Space Day of China and the 70th anniversary of the country’s space program, as reported by Global Times.
China’s position comes at a time when analysts often describe the current phase of space activity as “Competition 2.0,” marked not only by technological development but also by rule setting and alliance building. In response, Chinese officials reiterated that their approach is based on cooperation, peaceful use, and mutual benefit rather than strategic rivalry.
Over the past decades, China’s space program has expanded from early satellite launches to human spaceflight and deep space exploration. The country now operates the Tiangong space station and continues to develop missions involving lunar and planetary exploration. Officials highlighted this progress as part of a broader effort to contribute to global scientific advancement.
China also pointed to existing international collaborations as examples of its approach. In South America, the China Brazil Earth Resources Satellite program is used to monitor environmental conditions such as the Amazon rainforest. In Africa, multiple cooperation agreements have been signed, including cultural initiatives like sending artwork created by African students to space. In Asia, Pakistan is preparing to send astronauts to the Tiangong station through a joint selection and training process.
These partnerships reflect a strategy of expanding participation in space activities beyond traditional space powers. By offering access to infrastructure, training, and joint missions, China is positioning itself as a collaborative partner for countries looking to develop their own space capabilities.
The statement underscores an ongoing debate about how space should be governed as more actors enter the field. While competition continues to shape technological progress, calls for cooperation highlight the need for shared frameworks in areas such as resource use, orbital management, and scientific research.
