Cyprus has become an Associate Member to the European Space Agency.
"It is an honor to be with you today at the ESA Headquarters in Paris, as we formalise Cyprus’ accession as an Associate Member to the European Space Agency. This milestone is the culmination of years of dedicated preparation and close cooperation, and reflects Cyprus’ readiness to play an active and meaningful role in advancing Europe’s space ambitions" Deputy Minister of the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, Dr. Nicodemos Damianou said during the 23 October event in Paris.
He noted that since the signing of the first Cooperation Agreement in 2009, Cyprus has steadily deepened its partnership with ESA laying the groundwork for today's step.
The space sector in Cyprus, he added, is evolving into an indispensable part of the fast-growing technology ecosystem, which today contributes more than 15% to our country’s GDP.
"Today, Cyprus joins ESA as a more mature and forward-looking partner, that can bring both strategic and operational value within Europe’s growing space landscape" he pointed out.
Referring to Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026, he said "we see space as a vital pillar of Europe’s growth, competitiveness and strategic autonomy. We will work to harness this potential by fostering stronger partnerships and advancing policies that translate Europe’s space ambitions to tangible benefits for its citizens and the economy".
In his intervention, ESA Director General, Dr Josef Aschbacher congratulated the Deputy Minister and the Republic of Cyprus, and said that “together, we have transformed and elevated the Cypriot space sector, aligning our vision and interests. I thank the Government of the Republic of Cyprus for its commitment to the space sector and the spirit of European cooperation it demonstrates."
"To the citizens of Cyprus, welcome to a journey of discovery, innovation and shared progress. Welcome to ESA”, he concluded.
Cyprus’ accession to ESA as an Associate Member will come into effect within the coming months, with the ratification of the Agreement by the House of Representatives.
The ceremony was attended by delegates of ESA and representatives of ESA Member States.
(Source: CNA)
