RASCOM and Intersputnik sign agreement on cooperation in satellite communications
Date: 2024-07-17
The
Regional African Satellite Communications Organization (RASCOM) and
Intersputnik have signed a landmark agreement on cooperation in satellite
communications and other areas of mutual interest. The agreement aims to
promote mutual consultations, participation in events, and exchange of
information and documents between the two organizations.
The
signed document recognizes and respects the status and mandates of both
organizations, establishing a long-term working relationship. As part of the
cooperation, Intersputnik and RASCOM plan to attend formal and informal events,
such as meetings of the Assembly of Parties of RASCOM and sessions of the Board
of Intersputnik.
The
organizations have agreed to discuss issues affecting their activities and
exchange information and documents of mutual interest, excluding confidential
ones. This exchange will enable coordination of efforts in international
organizations like the International Telecommunication Union, the UN Committee
on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), and the Global Satellite
Operators Association (GSOA).
The
Director General of RASCOM, Timothy Ashong, expressed his belief that the
combined efforts of both organizations will unlock the full potential of modern
satellite communications systems for the African continent, contributing to
community integration and business development in various sectors of the
African economy.
“We believe that combined efforts of our organisations will unlock the
full potential of modern satellite communications systems for the African
continent, and, ultimately, will contribute to the integration of our
communities and business development in various sectors of the African
economy”, he said.
Ksenia
Drozdova, Director General of Intersputnik, emphasized the importance of
international cooperation and dialogue in achieving equal long-term
relationships. She highlighted that cooperation with RASCOM opens up new
prospects for introducing modern infocommunication services in African
countries, improving the quality of life, bridging the digital divide, and
achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
“We have always been open to a dialogue and exchange of information,
aiming at equal long-term relationships. Cooperation with RASCOM opens up new
prospects for us to introduce modern infocommunication services in African
countries, improve the quality of life of people and bridge the digital divide,
and achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” she stated.
RASCOM,
an intergovernmental organisation established in 1992, unites 45 member states
to extend telecommunications services across Africa. The organisation
prioritizes regional African satellite systems, including its own satellite
launched in 2010.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
