UK and Cyprus Strengthen Their Space Ties in Landmark Event

The UK and Cyprus are set to deepen their partnership in the space sector following a successful two-day event in Nicosia that marked a key milestone in their growing collaboration. 

Held on 27–28 March 2025, the Cyprus-UK Bilateral Cooperation Event brought together representatives from both governments and private industry, as well as space agencies with the support of the European Space Agency (ESA).

The event was particularly significant as Cyprus announced its ambition to become an Associate Member of ESA. This is an important step that could enhance its space programme and unlock new avenues for cooperation with established member states like the UK.

The UK Is Helping Cyprus Launch Its Space Ambitions

“There is great potential for collaboration on space activities to add a new dimension to the UK’s strong partnership with Cyprus,” said Professor Anu Ojha, International Director at the UK Space Agency. “This has never been more important, with space firmly established as a vital tool for driving economic growth, environmental protection and national security.”

The bilateral event featured in-depth working sessions on key issues including regulatory frameworks and space strategy development to commercial expansion and the planning of future missions. Presentations from Cypriot institutions highlighted national capabilities in Earth observation and digital infrastructure as well as the satellite industry.

Ten UK space companies joined the forum, alongside fourteen Cypriot entities, sharing insights into their technical expertise and ongoing projects. ESA officials also outlined funding opportunities that could support joint ventures under existing and future programmes.

George Komodromos, Acting Permanent Secretary of Cyprus’s Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, called the dialogue “encouraging” and thanked the UK for its continued support. “We are moving in the right direction,” he said, adding that Cyprus aims to position itself firmly in the global space ecosystem.

Looking ahead, a Cypriot visit to the UK is planned later in 2025, with both nations set to map out capabilities and identify shared goals for future missions and projects. Cyprus’s Space Strategy is focused on these kinds of deals and officials plan to “enable the emerging Space Industry to benefit from increased collaboration and research opportunities,” according to a Government report.

As space becomes increasingly central to global development, the Cyprus-UK alliance could serve as a model for cooperative space governance.