Australia-India relations have been further strengthened following the G20 Space Economy Leaders Meeting (SELM) in Bengaluru, India.
The SELM brings together space agency heads to help drive space awareness among the G20 community.
Head of the Australian Space Agency, Enrico Palermo, joined with his international counterparts to discuss the role space plays in the global economy.
‘Space is a global industry that relies on strong international partnerships,’ Mr Palermo said. ‘Our Agency is the gateway for the global space sector to engage with Australia – through space, climate, exploration, or industry-to-industry collaboration.’
During the Heads of Space Agencies Session on day one, Mr Palermo shared his view on the event’s theme Towards a New Space ERA (Economy, Responsibility and Alliance).
‘Responsible is one of the Australian Space Agency’s key strategic pillars, to demonstrate our commitment to be a safe and sustainable country.’
Over the two days, the Agency engaged in discussions on the important role space plays in helping the global economy. Also highlighted was how Australian capabilities are well-positioned to contribute on the international stage.
Mr Palermo met with Chairman Somanath of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). They continued discussions on Australia’s role in supporting India’s Gaganyaan Human Space Flight Program via tracking facilities on the Cocos Keeling Islands.
The status of our International Space Investment India program (India ISI) was also provided during a meeting with Chairman Goenka of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe).
India ISI will create projects and partnerships that use our individual expertise to strengthen both our space sectors. It will also enhance our capabilities and increase jobs and growth across our two countries.
‘Australia’s commercial space sector is rapidly growing, and we are producing incredibly unique and innovative space technologies that can, and will, support our G20 partners like India and support space missions into the future,’ Mr Palermo said.
‘It’s important for us to seize the opportunity forums such as the G20 and the SELM event bring – to establish ways to strategically collaborate based on the strengths we each have to offer.’