The strategic importance of space for the economy, security, and technological development, as well as the significant steps Cyprus is taking to strengthen its presence in the European space sector, were highlighted by the Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy, Dr. Nikodimos Damianou, during his speech at Hellas Sat’s 3rd Space Symposium, held in Athens on October 8.
Mr. Damianou placed particular emphasis on investments in space infrastructure, Cyprus’s participation in European programs, and strategic cooperation with Greece, noting that “Space is no longer an isolated policy sector but is linked to nearly every critical aspect of the modern state.”
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Referring to international developments, he noted that global space activity is undergoing a period of significant change, with the growing involvement of private capital creating new opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation.
According to estimates by the World Economic Forum and McKinsey, which he cited, the space economy could reach $1.8 trillion by 2035. At the same time, he highlighted the geopolitical dimension of the sector, emphasizing that “control over critical technologies, infrastructure, and data is now directly linked to national security, strategic power, and the autonomy of states.”
He made special mention of Cyprus’s progress, highlighting the adoption of the National Space Strategy 2025–2030, the enactment of legislation for the licensing of space activities, and the establishment of the Cyprus Space Office.
He described Cyprus’s accession as an Associate Member of the European Space Agency (ESA) in March 2026 as a significant milestone.
“For the period 2026–2028, we have committed 13.5 million euros to optional ESA programs, with the aim of supporting projects that develop Cypriot expertise and strengthen the position of our companies in European value chains,” he said.
Part of this effort to boost entrepreneurship is the creation of the first specialized Business Incubation Center for the space sector, at the “ERATOSTHENES” Center of Excellence.
In presenting the existing infrastructure, the Deputy Minister noted that Cyprus has four satellites of European interest in orbit, which utilize satellite resources of the Republic of Cyprus, as well as two main ground tracking stations operated by CYTA and Hellas Sat.
In addition, it hosts one of the four European receiving stations for Galileo’s Search and Rescue service, as well as two ground stations for the EGNOS system.
It has placed particular emphasis on the installation of Optical Ground Stations, which will strengthen Cyprus’s connection to the European Quantum Communications Infrastructure (EuroQCI) and the IRIS² secure connectivity program.
In this context, he referred to the strategic agreement between Hellas Sat, the French CNES, Thales Alenia Space, and Safran for the development of a next-generation optical communications system.
Mr. Damianou made special mention of the collaboration with Greece, noting that the relevant Memorandum of Understanding opens up prospects for joint initiatives in Earth Observation, satellite applications, quantum communications, and infrastructure.
He also highlighted opportunities for cooperation in utilizing data from the Greek national microsatellite program through the Center of Excellence “ERATOSTHENES,” as well as the two countries’ participation in the SEEWQCI project.
“Through the combined utilization of the expertise, infrastructure, and capabilities they are developing, Greece and Cyprus are making a substantial contribution to the implementation of the European Quantum Communications Infrastructure, EuroQCI, and to the development of secure next-generation communications,” he emphasized.
The Deputy Minister also congratulated Hellas Sat on its 25th anniversary, recognizing its contribution to the development of satellite communications and to strengthening the international presence of both countries.
In closing, he sent a message regarding the prospects for Greece and Cyprus in the space sector:
“With a shared vision, consistency, and boldness, we can shape a future in which Cyprus—and Greece—will participate actively and reliably in the new space age.”
