US and Saudi Arabia sign agreement on space co-operation

Countries will formalise strategic relationship for joint aeronautic and exploration projects

Saudi astronaut Ali Al Qarni greets family and friends at the Kennedy Space Centre in Cape Canaveral, Florida. AP

The State Department on Tuesday announced the US has reached a framework agreement with Saudi Arabia on space co-operation.

The two countries said they will develop a strategic relationship to tackle scientific studies, increase commercial investment and establish a legal framework for their joint projects, the SPA news outlet reported.

The agreement, which is focused on co-operation in aeronautics and the exploration of space for peaceful purposes, was signed on Monday.

Nasa administrator Bill Nelson was the signatory for the US while Saudi Space Agency chief executive Mohammed Al Tamimi signed the agreement on behalf of the kingdom.

“Building on my visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this year, I look forward to strengthening our co-operation for the future of exploration,” Mr Nelson said.

“We are living in the golden era of exploration – one that is rooted in partnership. This new agreement outlines how we will work together and explore together for the benefit of humanity.”

The US has long had a presence in space through Nasa and space flights and exploration are being expanded through the private sector.

Saudi Arabia has increased its space-focused projects in recent years and has been in talks about next-generation space stations with other nations.

Riyadh has collaborated with US-based company SpaceX to purchase astronaut spots from Axiom, which resulted last year in the first Arab woman to complete a space mission.

Abdullah Alswaha, chairman of the Saudi Space Agency, said the deal with the US "represents a turning point in the kingdom’s journey towards building a strong and prosperous space sector”, SPA reported.

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