Thursday, Sep 29, 2016

Abu Dhabi: The UAE Space Agency has joined the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), a body dedicated to space cooperation.

The IAF was established in 1951 to promote dialogue between scientists around the world.

Since its formation, the UAE agency has created ties with global space industry organisations and agencies that have a common vision for space exploration, the organisation said in a statement on Thursday.

Some of the agency’s latest partners in other recent tie-ups include Nasa and national space agencies of France, Russia, Japan, China, and the United Kingdom, among others.

Dr Khalifa Mohammad Al Rumaithi, chairman of UAE Space Agency, said: “Joining the International Astronautical Federation is in line with our efforts to strengthening the UAE’s presence within the global space sector and establishing international relations with key players in the industry, which are central elements to the UAE Space Agency’s strategy.

“The UAE Space Agency recognises the importance of international collaboration in the field of peaceful exploration of outer space, as this field is considered part of humankind’s common heritage. 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.”

Dr Mohammad Nasser Al Ahbabi, director general of UAE Space Agency, said: “Since its founding, the UAE Space Agency has been emphasising the importance of cooperating and collaborating with international partners in the fields of space science and the peaceful exploration of outer space. Membership in the IAF opens the door to the creation of a wide range of beneficial programmes and activities involving numerous organisations from around the world.”

The UAE Space Agency is currently participating in the 67th International Astronautical Congress (IAC), organised by the IAF and taking place at the Expo Guadalajara in Mexico. The agency has been sharing its experiences, challenges, and insights in space research, technology, education, and regulation.

The IAF has 300 members consisting of representatives from more than 66 countries.

The members come from a variety of organisations, including space agencies, companies, universities, professional associations, government bodies and institutes.

The IAF has close ties with the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) and the International Institute of Space Law (IISL), with whom the IAF organises the annual International Astronautical Congress (IAC).

by Derek Baldwin Chief Reporter

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