WASHINGTON, The US welcomes Japan’s intention to extend its support of International Space Station (ISS) operations through 2030, US Vice President Kamala Harris said.
“In addition, our two countries are taking a step forward by reaching an agreement on collaboration on the Lunar Gateway orbiting platform, which will pave the way for the return of humanity to the Moon,” Harris said in a statement Thursday evening.
She added that Japan’s contributions will “advance scientific knowledge and protect our brave astronauts exploring the depths of outer space.
And this brings us one step closer to one day having a Japanese astronaut walk on the moon.” She affirmed that the alliance between the two countries is a “cornerstone of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and around the globe.” “Space cooperation is a critical component of our alliance,” she remarked.
“Today we celebrate US-Japan cooperation in space, which has never been stronger.” Last year, the US agreed to extend operations of the ISS through 2030.
Source: Kuwait News Agency