Beijing, Sep 23 (IANS): Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao Monday called for peaceful exploration and use of space technology to serve the interests of people and countries throughout the world.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the 64th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2013), Li said space resources were the common wealth of mankind and countries enjoy equal rights to use such resources, Xinhua reported.

It would be a blessing for mankind if space technologies are used for peace; if they are used for war it would be a human disaster, he said.

China was willing to share its experience with other countries in using space technologies to boost economic development, the vice president said.

The conference is being held Sep 23-27.

With its theme "Promoting Space Development for the Benefits of Mankind", the event has attracted around 3,600 people including leading space scientists, academics, researchers, industry and commerce executives, students and young professionals from 74 countries.