United NationsOffice for Outer Space Affairs

For information only - not an official document

UNIS/OS/487
08 November 2017

UNOOSA and UAE Space Agency sign MOU for increased cooperation

VIENNA/DUBAI, 8 November (United Nations Information Service) - The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Space Agency have committed to increased cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space.

UNOOSA Director Simonetta Di Pippo and UAE Space Agency Director General Mohammed Al-Ahbabi signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for this cooperation today. The signing ceremony took place during the United Nations/UAE High Level Forum on "Space as a Driver for Socio-economic Sustainable Development", which is being held in Dubai, UAE, from 6 to 9 November.

Under the MOU, UNOOSA and the UAE Space Agency have agreed to work on capacity-building initiatives on both the technical and legal aspects of the peaceful uses of outer space, and to undertake joint research projects on the use of space technology and applications for economic and social benefits. UNOOSA and the UAE Space Agency will promote and coordinate regional cooperation on these topics. In addition, the MOU addresses the UAE Space Agency's support to UNISPACE+50  and activities under the Space2030 agenda, which will result from UNISPACE+50.

"I am pleased to welcome the UAE Space Agency into this partnership with UNOOSA as the next step in our valued cooperation. The UAE Space Agency's achievements in space science and technology are extensive and impressive. I am therefore thrilled that the Agency is extending its expertise and dedication to working with UNOOSA as we strive to ensure that the benefits of space reach everyone, everywhere. Together we will work on a number of initiatives to promote and facilitate the peaceful uses of outer space and the use of space as a tool for the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals. This will include a particular focus on the Middle East region, as well as science, technology, engineering and mathematics education (STEM), especially for women and girls," said UNOOSA Director Simonetta Di Pippo.

"The UAE enjoys a strong relationship with both the United Nations and the international space sector. Through this new MoU, we are dedicated to further augmenting our relationship with UNOOSA, in line with our strategic plans to continue expanding international cooperation and collaboration," said His Excellency Dr Eng. Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency. "Capacity building is one of our primary objectives at the UAE Space Agency and we are looking forward to working with UNOOSA to enhance our capabilities, develop joint research projects, and promote regional cooperation on the peaceful exploration of outer space and the use of space technology and infrastructure. When it comes to fostering the well-being of humankind through sustainable development, we are firm believers in working together towards this common goal."

The UNOOSA-UAE Space Agency MOU will be in force for an initial period of five years.

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For further information, please contact:

Daria  Brankin
United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs
Telephone: (+43-699) 1459 8718
Email: daria.brankin[at]unoosa.org

Ghali Houri
Four Communications - UAE Space Agency
Telephone: (+971) 55 980 6698
Email: ghali.houri[at]fourcommunications.com