The UK and Cyprus are set to collaborate more closely on space activities following a successful bilateral event held in Nicosia on 27-28 March.
The first-ever Cyprus–UK Bilateral Cooperation Event marked a significant step forward in collaboration on space activities between the two countries.
Held with the support of the European Space Agency (ESA), the event brought together representatives from the governments and space sectors of both nations to explore mutual interests and future opportunities in space-related activities.
Cyprus announces bid for ESA associate membership
One of the key highlights of the event was the Cypriot Government’s announcement of its intention to become an Associate Member of ESA.
This strategic move signals Cyprus’s ambition to expand its role within the European and global space ecosystem. Associate Membership would provide Cyprus with access to more ESA programmes and funding opportunities, enabling closer cooperation with existing ESA member states such as the UK.
Professor Anu Ojha, International Director at the UK Space Agency, emphasised the significance of this growing partnership. “There is great potential for collaboration on space activities to add a new dimension to the UK’s strong partnership with Cyprus,” he said.
“This has never been more important, with space firmly established as a vital tool for driving economic growth, environmental protection and national security.”
Professor Ojha also acknowledged the progress Cyprus has made in recent years through its collaboration with ESA, expressing enthusiasm for deepening the bilateral relationship in the coming years.
A strategic vision for space activities
Representing the Cypriot Government, Mr George Komodromos, Acting Permanent Secretary of the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, explained: “The high-level dialogue and engagement among companies, as well as among delegations, is encouraging and shows that we are moving in the right direction.
“We are especially grateful for the UK’s continued support of our efforts to position ourselves within the global space ecosystem, a highly revolving and rapidly changing environment in a vastly changing world.”
Regulation, strategy and commercial growth
The event featured a series of working sessions that tackled a range of critical topics. These included discussions on regulatory frameworks, the development of national space strategies, commercial space opportunities, and upcoming ESA missions.
Experts from both nations shared insights into how their respective countries are building resilient, innovative, and forward-looking space industries.
Cypriot universities and private-sector companies also showcased national space projects in key areas such as Earth observation, satellite research, and advancements in digital infrastructure.
On the UK side, ten leading space companies presented their capabilities and technologies. Fourteen Cypriot entities also participated, further illustrating the growing strength of the country’s space ecosystem.
ESA representatives were on hand to explain the agency’s various funding programmes, which could support future joint initiatives between Cyprus and the UK.
The future of collaboration on space activities
The UK, a founding member of ESA, continues to play a central role in shaping the agency’s direction. Cyprus, which signed a cooperation agreement with ESA in 2016, is one of four countries working toward Associate Membership by 2026.
As a next step, the UK Space Agency will host a reciprocal visit by Cypriot government officials, academics, and companies later this year.
Both countries have committed to mapping out existing capabilities and identifying specific areas for future collaboration in fast-evolving global space activities.
