Luxembourg and the UAE have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to begin bilateral cooperation in space activities, with a particular focus on the exploration and utilisation of space resources.
The five-year agreement covers the exchange of information and expertise between the two countries in the areas of space science and technology, human capital development and space policy, law, and regulation.
In February 2016, Luxembourg – in a bid to become a European hub for space technology – launched the SpaceResources.lu initiative, which offers commercial companies a legal framework of the ownership of space resources and regulations, as well as incentives for private sector companies interested in the potential of space mining.
“Luxembourg is promoting actively the peaceful exploration and the sustainable utilisation of space resources for the benefit of humankind. In line with those goals, the Grand Duchy encourages discussions on space resources exploration and utilisation in all relevant international fora,” said Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Economy Étienne Schneider.
“By signing this MoU with the UAE Space Agency, we continue to endorse cooperation at bilateral and multilateral levels in order to progress together with other nations on a future governance scheme and a global regulatory framework for space resources utilisation.”
Dr. Ahmad bin Abdulla Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Higher Education and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the UAE Space Agency, said that the MoU is “aligned with the strategic visions of both the Space Agency and the UAE.”
“The UAE Space Agency recognises the importance of international collaboration in the field of peaceful exploration of outer space, as this field is considered to be part of humankind’s common heritage,” he added. “It is extremely important in our view for all competent entities in this field to work together towards the common goal of enhancing the welfare of humanity.”
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