UAE Space Agency Delegation Strengthens Space Partnership with Japan
A delegation from the UAE Space Agency, led by Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, has conducted an official visit to Japan. The mission underscores the UAE’s commitment to expanding international cooperation in the fields of space exploration, scientific research, and advanced space industries.
Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi emphasized the nation’s goals, stating the UAE operates with a “clear and ambitious vision for the future of the space sector, guided by the National Space Strategy 2030, which seeks to build a sustainable space economy, support scientific research and empower the private sector to participate actively in space projects and technologies.” He highlighted the importance of working closely with global partners to establish a robust and supportive space ecosystem for sustained growth.
Dr Al Falasi further remarked, “Our visit to Japan reflects our country’s commitment to its role as a bridge for international collaboration, connecting national aspirations with cross-border initiatives and contributing to creating a more integrated global space ecosystem that benefits all of humanity. Through partnerships with our counterparts in Japan, we are keen to support ambitious national programmes that open new opportunities for collaboration in science, technology and exploration. This aligns with our belief that collective efforts with partners around the world reflect the UAE’s leading position in the fields of space science and space economy, both in the region and across the world.”
Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of the UAE Space Agency, described the significance of the visit, saying that it “represents a significant milestone in our excellent working relationship with Japan, one of the world’s foremost space leaders, and reinforces the strategic partnership between our two countries. During this productive, informative visit, we explored advanced developments in space industries and discussed joint projects that will enhance national capabilities while creating new opportunities for our youth.” He added, “We believe the cooperation between our two countries marks the beginning of a new phase of scientific and industrial partnerships that will benefit both regions and drive progress in the space community across the globe.”
During their time in Japan, the UAE delegation held talks with senior officials from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, headed by MATSUO Takehiko, Vice Minister for International Affairs. These discussions focused on exploring collaboration in space-related industries and fostering innovation in space exploration technologies.
The delegation also visited the JAXA Tsukuba Space Centre, where they were welcomed by Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, President of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The visit allowed for the sharing of scientific and technical initiatives, including advanced space sensing systems, satellite laboratories, and deep space exploration programmes.
As part of strengthening industrial cooperation, the group toured the Tobeshima plant of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), a leading hub for spacecraft and satellite manufacturing. Discussions with Iwao Igarashi, Head of Space and Vice President at MHI, focused on enhancing collaboration in space manufacturing, knowledge transfer, and capacity building.
This significant engagement marks a progressive step in the ongoing partnership between the UAE and Japan, promising new opportunities in scientific research, industry growth, and technology exchange, contributing to a stronger global space community.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
