Canada is a step closer to the final frontier after completing negotiations with the United States on an agreement with major implications for domestic space launches.

The agreement, which is yet to be signed, will establish the legal and technical safeguards needed to use U.S. space launch technology, expertise and data for launches in Canada.

Foreign Affairs Minister M茅lanie Joly says in a news release that Canada鈥檚 growing commercial space launch industry relies on its ability to collaborate across borders.

She says this agreement, when in force, will position Canada as a global leader in commercial space launch.

Maritime Launch, the company developing Canada鈥檚 first commercial spaceport in northeastern Nova Scotia, says in a news release that the agreement is a major step forward for the industry.

The federal government is in the process of modernizing its regulatory framework around commercial space launch activities as the industry sees tremendous growth globally.

The Canadian Press