Georgia’s PM participates in International Space Summit in Paris at invitation of French President

At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze participated in the International Space Summit in Paris.

Three space security declarations were adopted as part of the Summit, with Georgia a signatory to all three. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze confirmed that Georgia will work alongside its European partners in future decision-making processes.

“It is important for Europe to have its own vision and independent policy on space-related issues. As a small country, our resources in this area are limited; however, we are part of the decision-making process. We participate in relevant decision-making on various international platforms. Therefore, naturally, our position is also important to our European partners. We have joined three different declarations related to space security issues. We will continue close cooperation with our European colleagues on these matters in the future as well. Georgia will be fully involved in the process of making relevant decisions,” stated Irakli Kobakhidze.

The President of the French Republic opened the summit. Emmanuel Macron spoke about the capabilities of Europe’s space industry and noted that Europe must ensure its strategic independence and sovereignty in space, particularly in satellite communications, defence and security.

According to the French President, space infrastructure is now directly linked to national security and strategic autonomy, which is precisely why the summit’s official themes focus on the space economy, science, research, and security.

Emmanuel Macron stressed the importance of strengthening international cooperation and making relevant investments to enhance European autonomy, noting that satellite communications, navigation and related infrastructure have already become an integral part of European sovereignty.

The President of the European Commission also delivered the opening remarks at the Summit. According to Ursula von der Leyen, space is no longer solely a domain of science and research. It has already become an integral part of Europe’s economic power, security and sovereignty. Therefore, Europe must have reliable independent access to space and its own relevant infrastructure, including secure satellite communications, navigation and Earth observation capabilities.

Representatives of 90 countries and international organisations, including heads of state and governments and executives of major companies, participated in the first International Summit on Space.

The Prime Minister of Georgia attended the opening ceremony together with a Georgian delegation comprising Deputy Prime Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs Maka Botchorishvili, Minister of Defence Irakli Chikovani and Head of Government Administration Levan Zhorzholiani.