The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a framework agreement that opens new possibilities for cooperation with NASA.
Known as the “Framework Agreement Between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Cooperation in Aeronautics and the Exploration and Use of Airspace and Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes,” it establishes the overall legal framework to facilitate and strengthen mutually beneficial collaboration between the two countries.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson signed the agreement on July 16, 2024, on behalf of the US, and CEO of the Saudi Space Agency Mohammed bin Saud Al-Tamimi signed on behalf of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The agreement covers cooperation in multiple areas, including space science, exploration, aeronautics, space operations, education, and Earth science.
The signing comes two months after Nelson’s visit to Saudi Arabia, where he met with Saudi Space Agency and other senior officials to discuss future partnerships and civil space cooperation for the broader US and Saudi Arabia relationship. “Building on my visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this year, I look forward to strengthening our cooperation for the future of exploration,” said Nelson.
“The agreement represents a turning point in the Kingdom’s journey towards building a strong and prosperous space sector,” said Saudi Space Agency Chairman Abdullah bin Amer Al-Swaha. “It reflects the Kingdom’s firm commitment to progress and innovation in the field of space, and its continuous efforts to enhance its position as an important partner on the global stage for space exploration and scientific discovery.”
The agreement also acknowledges the importance of the Artemis Accords, which Saudi Arabia signed in July 2022.
