UAE Space Agency marks second anniversary

Abu Dhabi, July 18 (IANS/WAM) The UAE Space Agency celebrated its second anniversary, reflecting on its remarkable achievement since its establishment, said a top official.

The achievements include developing and integrating the United Arab Emirates national space sector, launching the agency's strategy and signing several important agreements with prominent global space industry players, Chairman Khalifa Al Romaithi said on Sunday.

"With our solid foundation, we reaffirm our absolute commitment to the nation, and to raising the UAE's profile within the global space sector. We are determined to fulfill the leadership's decision to become a leading nation in space sciences, and to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the UAE by reaching Mars," said Al Romaithi.

Established under federal law, the agency has a mandate to organise, regulate and support the national space sector. It also encourages the development and use of space science and technology in the country, and advises the sector in this regard.

Also, the space agency has successfully established relationships with several global space industry organisations and agencies that have a common vision for space exploration.

This includes signing agreements with the US space agency NASA and also space agencies of France, Russia, Japan, China and the UK.

The space agency was also successful in gaining membership to the International Space Exploration Coordination Group, thus making the UAE the first Arab country to join the prestigious global organization.

Al Romaithi said the agency attracted global attention and strengthened the national standing in the international space community with the organisation of a mission to observe and study the entry of an artificial space debris into the Earth's atmosphere in November 2015.

--IANS/WAM

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