The Israel Space Agency, part of the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, signed a historic first cooperation agreement in the field of space with the Azerbaijani Space Agency. The agreement was signed this week at the International Astronautics Congress (IAC), the world's most important space congress. The congress, which takes place in a different country each year, under the aegis of the International Astronautics Federation, takes place this year in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.
The agreement, signed by Israel Space Agency Director Uri Oron and Azerbaijani Space Agency Chairman Samadin Asadov, is expected to lead to joint projects in the space field, including the development of space technologies, satellites, space exploration systems (robotics, vehicles and optical systems), academic joint ventures, Earth observation and monitoring, educational projects and more.
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Ofir Akunis said, "The agreement signed today is further proof of the strengths of science, innovation and the Israeli space industry. Israel's international standing is strong and constantly strengthening. The agreement with Azerbaijan has important economic and political significance and I congratulate all those who worked for its success."
Israel Space Agency Director General Uri Oron added, "The signing of the memorandum of understanding between the space agencies establishes and strengthens the bond forged between the countries. In an era in which the field of space is growing rapidly, the agreement will enable the State of Israel to maintain business, research and academic collaborations that are essential for the development of the field of space in Israel."
Israeli Ambassador to Azerbaijan George Dick said, "Joint work by all parties on the Israeli and Azerbaijani sides led to the signing of the understandings, with the intention of expanding cooperation in the near future. The relationship between Israel and Azerbaijan will deepen and expand into new fields of technology for the benefit of both countries and peoples."