Hanoi, Oct. 29 -- The Department noted that space exploration is entering a new era of discovery and opportunity, with growing importance for scientific advancement, economic growth, and the technologies that will shape the future.

As the 78th signatory, Viet Nam joins a growing coalition of nations dedicated to space policy that will extend the reach of human discovery and innovation using safe, transparent, and responsible space exploration and use, it noted, adding that the nation will help put these shared principles into practice as a committed partner in the peaceful, cooperative use of space.

Viet Nam's decision extends the U.S.-Viet Nam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership into a new frontier. Built on more than 30 years of coope...