Cyprus is positioning itself as a trusted partner for space innovation, Earth observation and space-enabled services, Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy of the Republic of Cyprus, Dr Nicodemos Damianou, has said.
In statements to CNA, the Minister, who recently signed a Joint Declaration with France on cooperation in space activities on the sidelines of the Space Summit in Paris, said that it creates a framework for closer collaboration in Earth observation, space science and satellite telecommunications.
Our ability to understand climate change, respond to natural disasters, strengthen connectivity and industrial capabilities, safeguard critical infrastructure and support innovation, as well as our defense capabilities and overall technological sovereignty and strategic autonomy, increasingly depend on space, he went on to say.
Moreover, he noted that the discussions and declarations adopted at last week’s International Space Summit in Paris reflect this shared European understanding.
Over the last few years, he said, Cyprus has moved decisively from being a user of space services to becoming an emerging contributor to Europe's space ecosystem.
This was achieved, the Deputy Minister noted, through active participation in European Space Programs, associate membership with the European Space Agency, strategic investments in satellite ground infrastructure, gateway facilities, and secure connectivity, and innovation-focused initiatives such as a Space Business Incubation Centre.
"Cyprus is positioning itself as a trusted partner for space innovation, Earth observation and space-enabled services, in a strategically important neighborhood," he stressed.
The Deputy Minister said that international cooperation is central to our approach — and to the very purpose of this Summit and noted that, in this context, Cyprus and France signed on the sidelines of the Space Summit a Joint Declaration on cooperation in space activities. This, he said, creates a framework for closer collaboration in Earth observation, space science and satellite telecommunications.
It also provides, he continued, a framework for sharing expertise and experience, encouraging participation in joint research and industry initiatives, and strengthening our coordination within ESA and other European and international fora.
"The longstanding relationship between Cyprus and France continues to deepen across strategic sectors. Building on the Strategic Partnership established by Presidents Christodoulides and Macron, this signing reflects our shared political will to work together for a stronger, more resilient and more autonomous Europe," the Deputy Minister concluded.
(Source: CNA)
