Cyprus has become the 46th country to join the Artemis Accords, a set of principles guiding peaceful and responsible space exploration.
The official signing ceremony occurred at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, directly connected with NASA. The Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy, Dr. Nikodemos Damianou represented the Republic of Cyprus.
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The Artemis Accords, which are not legally binding, aim to promote the peaceful exploration and exploitation of space. The United States Department of State and NASA leads them.
Cyprus’ accession to the Accords came as part of the first round of the Cyprus-U.S. Strategic Dialogue, which took place on October 23, 2024, in Nicosia. This event, co-organized by the Cypriot Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus, was attended by James O’Brian, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs.
The strategic dialogue focuses on strengthening the bilateral relationship between Cyprus and the U.S. in key areas, including technology and space exploration, to promote a future of security, peace, and prosperity.
Dr. Nicodemos Damianou described the signing as “a significant milestone for Cyprus.” He emphasized the country’s commitment to the safe and responsible exploration of space and the importance of international cooperation.
He stated, “As we embark on this exciting journey, we reaffirm our dedication to utilizing space for the benefit of all humanity. Cyprus, as an EU member state, and with its strategic position at the crossroads of three continents, aspires to be an integral part of the global space community.”
Jim Free, NASA’s Deputy Administrator, welcomed Cyprus to the Artemis Accords during the live event. He noted that Cyprus’ participation is expected to enhance cooperation with NASA and the international space community. He stated, “We welcome Cyprus’ accession to the Artemis Accords, which will contribute to an open, responsible, transparent, and peaceful space exploration for the benefit of all.”
The Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides stated to Future Media, “Space, science, and technology unite. The signing of the Artemis according is of strategic importance for Cyprus as it enables the cooperation of various scientific disciplines through collaboration with NASA to unlock trapped value.”
He mentioned further: “This opportunity lays the foundation for the emerging Cypriot space cluster ecosystem to contribute to science and research in Space exploration. This agreement sets the foundation through which some of the world’s brightest researchers and scientists can work together to solve challenges that are ahead of us.”
The Artemis Accords
In 2020, NASA, in coordination with the U.S. Department of State and seven other initial signatory nations, established the Artemis Accords, which identified an early set of principles promoting the beneficial use of space for humanity. The Artemis Accords are grounded in the Outer Space Treaty and other agreements including the Registration Convention, the Rescue and Return Agreement, as well as best practices and norms of responsible behavior that NASA and its partners have supported, including the public release of scientific data.
The commitments of the Artemis Accords and efforts by the signatories to advance the implementation of these principles support the safe and sustainable exploration of space.
According to NASA, more countries are expected to sign in the coming days and weeks ahead.
Why this is important
This decision allows Cyprus to be part of a growing international community that is committed to the peaceful and sustainable exploration of space.
By participating, Cyprus can engage in collaborative efforts to explore the moon, Mars and other planets ensuring that space resources are utilized responsibly.
For Cyprus, this move aligns with its broader technological and diplomatic goals. It enhances its strategic ties with key space-faring nations, particularly the United States and NASA, and promotes innovation within its own scientific and technological sectors.
Additionally, it highlights the country’s ambitions to leverage its geographical position—at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa—as a strategic partner in space exploration.
Joining the Accords also opens opportunities for Cyprus to contribute to global space missions and benefit from technology transfer and innovation.
By joining the Artemis Accords, Cyprus is set to deepen its involvement in global space efforts, positioning itself as a collaborator in the peaceful and responsible use of space.