India and EU eye deeper space collaboration to ensure global space security 

Special Envoy Marjolijn Van Deelen calls for joint strategy on cooperation and threat perception in space sector

April 14, 2025

The focus is on developing a shared understanding of space threats and contributing to multilateral frameworks for safe conduct in space

The EU and India are aligned in their support for rules-based global governance in outer space and back the same processes at the United Nations

Ongoing engagements already exist between Indian space companies and the EU’s Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) systems

The EU emphasised the need for structured discussions involving both its security and programme management arms to ensure a comprehensive approach

The European Union has conveyed a strong intent to collaborate further with India on space security and cooperation, recognising the strategic importance of preserving space as a global commons.

Marjolijn Van Deelen, Special Envoy for Space at the European External Action Service, said during an interaction with ANI that both India and the EU are well-positioned as leading space-faring entities to jointly address emerging challenges in the space sector.

Highlighting the shared interests of both sides, Van Deelen said the EU is prepared to engage with Indian partners to advance cooperation on both civil and security aspects of space. She noted the importance of ensuring continued access to space for all nations and future generations.

As a starting point, she suggested that India and the EU work towards a mutual understanding of perceived space threats and participate collaboratively in ongoing multilateral efforts to shape norms and behavioural guidelines in space.

According to her, India can play a significant role in shaping international frameworks alongside the EU, particularly within United Nations-led discussions focused on rules-based space governance.

Van Deelen pointed out that there is already a significant level of interaction between Indian space enterprises and the EU’s Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) network, signalling active cooperation that could be expanded further.

When asked about specific products or initiatives under discussion, she stated that a broader dialogue—especially involving the European Commission, which manages the EU space programme—would help build a holistic path forward, integrating both strategic and commercial dimensions.

She also stressed the importance of transparency and continued dialogue between India and the EU to understand each other’s positions and work toward a common set of principles that can attract broader international support.

Source: The Organiser

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