United States and Saudi Arabia sign space partnership
For space-related endeavours
In a landmark development aimed at advancing mutual interests in space exploration and science, the United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a comprehensive framework agreement.
The accord, titled the ‘Framework Agreement Between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Cooperation in Aeronautics and the Exploration and Use of Airspace and Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes,’ lays the groundwork for collaboration across various facets of space-related endeavours.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson signed the agreement on behalf of the United States, emphasising the potential for joint efforts in space science, exploration, aeronautics, space operations, education, and Earth science.
Nelson expressed optimism about the future of cooperation, stating, “We are living in the golden era of exploration – one that is rooted in partnership. This new agreement outlines how we’ll work together and explore together for the benefit of humanity.”
Saudi response
From the Saudi side, Saudi Space Agency CEO Mohammed bin Saud Al-Tamimi hailed the agreement as a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia’s aspirations to bolster its space sector.
“The agreement represents a turning point in Saudi Arabia’s journey towards building a strong and prosperous space sector,” noted Saudi Space Agency Chairman Abdullah bin Amer Al-Swaha.
He underscored his country’s commitment to progress and innovation in space, aiming to elevate its global standing as a key partner in space exploration and scientific discovery.
The accord also acknowledges Saudi Arabia’s adherence to the principles of the Artemis Accords, which the country signed in July 2022. These principles advocate for transparent, safe, and responsible space exploration, aligning with NASA’s Artemis campaign and supporting cooperative efforts among signatory nations.
NASA’s Nelson’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia, which sought to solidify civil space cooperation and discuss future partnerships, preceded this agreement by two months. During his visit, Nelson engaged with senior officials from the Saudi Space Agency, paving the way for enhanced collaboration in space.
In a notable demonstration of international collaboration, in May 2023, Saudi mission specialists Ali Alqarni and Rayyanah Barnawi joined the Axiom Mission-2 private astronauts on a SpaceX Dragon mission from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre.
Their participation highlighted Saudi Arabia’s growing role in scientific research and commercial activities aboard the International Space Station, underlining the practical outcomes of international space cooperation.
Featured image: Two Saudi mission specialists joined Axiom Mission-2 (Ax-2), the second all-private astronaut mission to the International Space Station that lifted off on May 21, 2024, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. Credit: SpaceX
