UAE Space Agency and Kazakhstan sign space cooperation agreement

The UAE Space Agency has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Republic of Kazakhstan, defining a framework for collaboration and the exchange of information and expertise in the fields of space science, research, and technology.

The MoU was signed at the National Space Centre of Kazakhstan by H.E. Dr. Khalifa Al Romaithi, Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, and Meirbek Moldabekov, Deputy Chairman of the Kazakh Investment and Development Ministry’s Aerospace Committee.

The MoU promotes cooperation in various aspects of space exploration, including space science, research, technology, remote sensing, and navigation. In addition to this, the MoU encourages collaboration on space policy, law, regulation, and personnel training for space activities.

KazCosmos, the National Space Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan, was established in 2007. To date, KazCosmos has launched KazSat-1 and KazSat-2 telecommunications satellites, and signed a contract with Russian company ISS-Reshetnev and Thales Alenia Space Italy in 2011 for a third telecommunications satellite, KazSat-3.

Kazakhstan also owns the Baikonur Cosmodrome, and leases it to the Russian space agency where it carries out manned space launches to the International Space Station.

H.E. Dr Khalifa Al Romaithi, Chairman of the UAE Space Agency said: “Our agreement with the Republic of Kazakhstan falls within the strategic visions of both the Space Agency and the UAE. This includes working towards closer international cooperation, establishing mutually beneficial international partnerships and exchanging scientific knowledge with the rest of the world.”

“The UAE Space Agency recognizes the importance of international collaboration in the field of peaceful exploitation of outer space, as this field is considered part of humankind’s common heritage. It is extremely important in our view for all competent entities in this field to work together towards the common goal of enhancing the welfare of humanity,” added Al Romaithi.

Meirbek Moldabekov, Deputy Chairman of the Kazakh Investment and Development Ministry’s Aerospace Committee said: “The United Arab Emirates and Republic of Kazakhstan enjoy great partnerships across many areas including the exploration of space, and we are certain that the signing of this MoU will strengthen cooperation in space sciences, research, technology and services, as well as the existing strong relations between the two countries.”