Nations hail exchange of space science info

China and the United States yesterday said they will open a dialogue on space cooperation, a move experts say will increase understanding and benefit both sides in the long run.

A joint statement released by President Hu Jintao and visiting US President Barack Obama said the two countries "look forward to expanding discussions on space science cooperation and starting a dialogue on human space flight and space exploration".

"Both sides welcome reciprocal visits of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) administrator and the appropriate Chinese counterpart in 2010," the document said.