China’s Collaboration In Space Exploration And Research With The European-Union

The aim of this thesis is to analyze the key factors influencing cooperative possibilities in SinoEuropean relations to identify constraining elements of their relations in space.In this analysis are presented the policies and environments surrounding each national space agency.China’s innovation and development in space science have been developed by know-how after the ColdWar era and the nation is now close to become a leader in space-science,resulting into behavioral changes among other nations in space.This thesis analyzes the relationship between governments and the socioeconomic benefits for both parties realizing a cooperation,including cost sharing,innovation and prestige.The methodology consists of a case-study analysis and in-depth interviews to obtain reliable data and compare them with past results.A total of 12 indepth interviews have been conducted among decision influencers of space programs: Joint cooperation programs,private entities and universities.All respondents participated in spacerelated activities and expressed their knowledge about space programs.Therefore,the results exposed the constraining elements of Sino-European relations in space-related fields.National security development remains a major constraint affecting their cooperative possibilities.In conclusion this thesis argues that transnational threats can provide a good scope for strengthened Sino-European relations in space-related fields.Finally,global threats such as climate change and space-debris modify the international structure of States,supporting a double-need for international cooperation.This research hopes to provide a clear insight of the relationships between European economies and China as the Chinese space programs evolve quickly.