Russian-Chinese Agreement to Establish a Joint International Lunar Station

The Russian government has approved the draft law to formalize the agreement signed with China regarding the establishment of a joint international lunar station, according to the TASS news agency. The text of the government resolution on this matter has been published on the website of the Russian Cabinet. Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has tasked Sergey Savelyev, Deputy General Director of the Russian state space corporation Roscosmos, to "submit the draft agreement to the State Duma (the lower house of the Russian Parliament) for ratification and to provide the document for consideration." The government resolution indicated that "the agreement will help strengthen the strategic partnership between Russia and China and enhance joint efforts in the field of cosmic exploration, affirming Russia's leading role in this area." The resolution also noted that "cooperation between the scientists of the two countries will improve the efficiency of space research and prepare specialists for future projects."