Latvia has reaffirmed its strong commitment to international cooperation, responsible governance, and the peaceful use of outer space during the 69th session of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS).
In its national statement delivered by Lauma Sīka, Deputy Director at the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation at the Ministry of Education and Science, Latvia highlighted that in May 2025 it officially acceded to the Outer Space Treaty, underlining its dedication to strengthening global space security and ensuring that space activities remain peaceful and beneficial to all humanity.
Against the backdrop of an increasingly complex geopolitical environment, Latvia emphasized that effective global space governance is more important than ever. The country expressed firm support for the work of COPUOS and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) in promoting inclusive, sustainable space activities and enhancing global resilience.
Latvia also underscored its commitment to international norms and partnerships. In April 2026, Latvia joined the Artemis Accords, opening new opportunities for cooperation with the United States and other international partners. This step is expected to strengthen Latvia’s integration into global space industry and research networks and reinforce its role as a trusted partner in the international space community.
The country welcomed the successful Artemis II mission as a significant milestone on the path toward returning humans to the Moon, noting it as a strong example of the value of international collaboration.
Latvia continues to play an active role in the global space sector. Since beginning cooperation with the European Space Agency in 2015, more than 120 projects involving Latvian companies, research institutions, and universities have been implemented. Latvian entities also contribute to global missions, including lunar exploration, by developing advanced navigation, data processing, and other technological solutions.
The statement reaffirmed Latvia’s commitment to the Space 2030 Agenda and to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Space technologies are widely applied across Latvia in areas such as environmental monitoring, agriculture, and infrastructure management, delivering tangible benefits to society and supporting economic growth.
Latvia further highlighted the importance of inclusiveness and gender equality in fostering innovation, attracting young talent, and maximizing the societal benefits of space activities.
In addition, Latvia expressed support for international development cooperation initiatives such as the European Union’s Global Gateway, including the Africa–EU Space Partnership Programme, which promotes the use of space-based data and strengthens institutional and private-sector capacity to address key challenges such as climate resilience, sustainable resource management, and urban development.
Concluding its statement, Latvia reaffirmed its readiness to continue working closely with international partners to ensure that the benefits of outer space are shared widely and contribute to a secure, sustainable, and inclusive future for all.
