A meeting of the heads of space agencies of the BRICS countries chaired by Russia has started in Moscow. During the event, which will last two days, representatives of the BRICS countries will exchange views on a wide range of international cooperation issues.

The heads of space agencies will discuss current and prospective projects in a multilateral format. In addition, the adoption of joint documents is planned.

“Today’s meeting is being held in an enlarged format, it is symbolic. We consider it not only as a good sign and a reflection of support for the Russian presidency and its priorities, but also, most importantly, as a confirmation of the agreement of all participants to develop co-operation in the space sphere,” Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said.

Chief Executive Officer of the South African National Space Agency Humbulani Mudau, noted that South Africa supports Russia’s initiative to establish a space council of BRICS member states.

“We intend to develop co-operation with the Russian side in this direction,” he said. He added that South Africa intends to intensify co-operation in the field of space technology with recently joined BRICS members Ethiopia and Egypt.

Mohsen Al Awadhi, Mission Director of the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA), said during the meeting that Russia’s contribution to space has always been an inspiring example.

“Together we must utilise our resources. On this basis, we can create and strive for new achievements that will ensure the progress of all mankind,” Al-Awadi said. He added that the UAE welcomes co-operation with Russia not only on existing projects, but also sees limitless potential for new accomplishments.

“This is the first time the Ethiopian side is participating in the meeting of heads of space agencies. We would like to learn more about the BRICS countries’ co-operation in the space industry. We are most interested in research projects,” said Abdissa Yilma, Director General of the Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial Institute.

China called for greater international cooperation in lunar exploration and invited other countries to join the Russia-China project to build the International Scientific Lunar Station.

“The utilisation of near space should be safe in the long term. We support Russia’s initiative in this regard,” said Zhang Kejian, head of the China National Space Administration (CNSA). According to him, China would like to promote the development of the BRICS satellite constellation at a higher level, increase resources and strengthen cooperation with other countries in this direction.