Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus has become an associate member of the European Space Agency, the agency announced on Thursday. The agency said a seven-year agreement entered into force on Tuesday.
Seven-year agreement enters into force
The European Space Agency said the agreement for the island’s associate membership entered force on Tuesday after director-general Joseph Aschbacher notified Research Deputy Minister Nicodemos Damianou.
Transition from cooperating state
The agency said the transition of the Republic of Cyprus from “cooperating state” to “associate member” followed positive assessments by both the European Space Agency and the government of Cyprus regarding the country’s maturing space ecosystem, growing capabilities, and potential to contribute to European space programmes.
Participation in optional programmes
The agency said associate membership will allow Cyprus to participate in optional programmes undertaken by the European Space Agency.
Artemis Accords cited
The announcement comes a year and a half after Cyprus signed the Artemis Accords, a set of principles and agreements established to govern international cooperation in the exploration and use of outer space.
Damianou comments
Damianou said at the time that “as we move deeper into the space age, it is imperative that we cultivate knowledge, share collaboration across disciplines and borders,” adding that “space should be at the core of our efforts, diversify our economies, and create value for future generations.”
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