Outer space meant to 'benefit mankind'

China will continue to strengthen international cooperation for the peaceful use of outer space, a senior official said.

Zhang Yulin, deputy chief commander of China's manned space flight project, made the remarks on Thursday night during a reception for United Nation representatives after the successful launch of Tianzhou 1, China's first cargo spacecraft.

"The launch of Tianzhou 1 is an important milestone in China's manned space program, and a firm step for humanity's exploration in space," he said. "For the next step, China will build a space station that will be an open, inclusive and innovative science platform."