The Bahrain Space Agency (BSA) participated in the first International Space Summit as part of the high-level Bahraini delegation headed by Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The participation comes within the Kingdom of Bahrain’s keenness to enhance its international presence in the space sector and affirm its commitment to actively engaging in the global dialogue on the future of space and its challenges, in a manner that serves its national objectives and ambitious vision to consolidate its position as a distinguished regional hub for space science and technology.
Dr. Mohammed Ebrahim Al Aseeri, CEO of the BSA, said that the summit, organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in cooperation with the governments of France and Germany, is the first of its kind at the international level and aims to open an inclusive dialogue among all parties concerned with the space sector to address the current challenges of the era.
He said that the summit brings together at least 96 countries, including heads of state and government, ministers, heads of space agencies, scientists, military experts, and leaders from the private sector and development finance institutions, Bahrain News Agency (BNA) reported.
Dr. Al Aseeri added that the summit’s proceedings focus on key strategic themes, foremost among them enhancing space sovereignty and autonomy amid the rapid developments in the space sector and the increasing reliance on space technologies in various aspects of life; developing satellite systems and space constellations, and the challenges they raise related to spectrum management and orbital congestion.
The summit further focused on enhancing security and defence in space through the establishment of legal and ethical frameworks to ensure the peaceful and responsible use of outer space; supporting scientific research and innovation in space science and its applications; and encouraging investment in the space sector and strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors.
Dr. Al Aseeri affirmed that the Kingdom’s participation in this forum comes as part of the Kingdom’s continuous efforts to enhance its presence in the space sector, following the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the continuous follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, reflecting the strategic importance of this sector.
He stressed that the Kingdom’s participation in the historic international summit sends a clear message that, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Bahrain is determined to advance its space programme and remain a trusted and reliable partner in international efforts to make space a field for cooperation, peace and sustainable development.
Dr. Al Aseeri added that the participation also demonstrates the ability of Bahraini youth to lead and excel in this promising strategic sector.
