Brussels: The Council of the EU recorded progress in the negotiations on the EU Space Act. The proceedings of the European Union Competitiveness Council (Space), held on Friday in Brussels, were concluded, during which Ministers discussed issues relating to the European space sector, technological development and the Union's economic security.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, Nicodemos Damianou, stated during a press conference that Ministers examined critical strategic issues shaping Europe's future in space. The Deputy Minister noted that the discussions reaffirmed the importance of space as a factor for Europe's competitiveness, economic security and technological sovereignty.
He pointed out that the Council took note of the Presidency's progress report on the European Space Act, which aims to strengthen the European space sector, improve safety and sustainability, and reduce fragmentation within the Union. The Deputy Minister stated that progress had been achieved, including a simplified compromise text that reduces administrative burdens and clarifies key legal and institutional elements. However, he noted that issues relating to governance, dual-use activities, third-country operators and international responsibilities remain open. Negotiations, he added, will continue until the end of June in preparation for the Irish Presidency, with the objective of maintaining progress on the file and strengthening Europe's position in the space sector.
At the same time, an exchange of views took place regarding the role of space in Europe's economic security. The Deputy Minister pointed out that space technologies and services have become critical for the daily functioning of key sectors such as transport, communications, climate monitoring, border management and defence. Within this context, the Deputy Minister underlined that there was broad agreement on the need for a more proactive approach to economic security, aimed at strengthening Europe's resilience while at the same time preserving openness and innovation.
Overall, he stressed, the Council's proceedings concluded that space now constitutes a strategic pillar for Europe's resilience, preparedness and autonomy, with the strengthening of related capabilities considered crucial for the Union's competitiveness and security.