UK and Canada Space Agencies Sign MOU on Joint Activities and Information Sharing
The UK Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency sign a Memorandum of Understanding on joint activities and information sharing on Space.
Yesterday (27TH October) the UK Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on joint activities and information sharing on Space. The MOU was signed by representatives of both national space agencies in Dubai at the annual International Astronautical Congress (IAC).
The agreement provides a framework for collaborative activities and the exchange of information, technology and personnel between both nations.
British High Commissioner to Canada, Susannah Goshko said:
I’m delighted by this agreement to strengthen co-operation between the UK and Canadian Space Agencies. As the UK’s recent Space Strategy made clear, the importance of space to everyday life continues to grow rapidly. It is vital that our two countries work ever closer to understand the risks and opportunities this brings, and jointly benefit from space as a driver of prosperity.
UK Space Agency chief executive, Dr Paul Bate, said:
This alliance will bring further significant benefits to the thriving space industries of the UK and Canada, allowing us to achieve our goals in space through collaborative efforts in research and innovation.
As set out in the UK’s National Space Strategy, we are committed to strengthening our international relationships and building the UK’s reputation as a partner of choice in space activities.
Yesterday’s agreement represents a significant step in growing collaboration between the UK and Canada on space, and will help to grow the capability and competitiveness of domestic space sectors in both countries.
The UK Government recently launched the National Space Strategy which outlines the long-term plans to grow the UK space sector and make Britain a science and technology superpower, including building on manufacturing and technology capacity, attracting investment and working internationally.
Established in 1989, the Canadian Space Agency employs approximately 670 employees and leads Canada’s activities in space, including space exploration, utilization and technology development, as well as scientific research.
Yesterday’s MOU signing builds on cooperation in space between the two countries in the areas of space science, technology and applications, space policy, law and regulation and human capital development.
The UK and Canada have a deep history of working together on scientific research. Our collaborations have seen us work on the forefront of global issues, from COVID19 to genomics, AI to Quantum technologies. Together, we have funded and led research to the tune of £65 million over the last 5 years.
About The International Astronautical Congress:
The International Astronautical Congress is an annual meeting of global space agencies and industry which is organised by the International Astronautical Federation, of which the UK Space Agency is a voting member. The United Arab Emirates is the first Arab country to host the IAC since its establishment in 1950.
With the theme “Inspire, Innovate & Discover for the Benefit of Humankind”, the IAC 2021 looks forward to making a contribution to humanity and to science by strengthening and enhancing cooperation between all countries in the space sector.
About the British High Commission in Ottawa:
The British High Commission in Ottawa, is the UK government’s main diplomatic mission in Canada. Along with Consulates-General in Montreal, Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver, we work closely with the Canadian government and partners across the country to develop and maintain a wide range of substantive partnerships of real value to both countries. These partnerships cover business, defence, climate change, science and innovation, education, and culture.