Baku: In a recent interview with the Azerbaijan State News Agency (AZERTAC), Ksenia Drozdova, Director General of the Intersputnik International Organization of Space Communications, emphasized Azerbaijan's vital role in advancing the space industry. Drozdova discussed Azerbaijan's international partnerships, the significance of satellite technologies for the nation's economic progress, and its collaboration with Intersputnik, all contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Drozdova praised Azercosmos, Azerbaijan's national satellite operator, for its remarkable decade-long journey, which has transformed it into a regional leader. Unlike other national projects focused primarily on domestic markets, Azercosmos has expanded its presence to overseas markets in the South Caucasus, Caspian Sea region, Central Asia, and beyond, including the Middle East and Sub-Saharan Africa. The company has also diversified its offerings by incorporating earth observation and remote sensing services.
Drozdova highlighted the importance of cooperation between national players and international organizations to balance the market dynamics dominated by global commercial entities. Azerbaijan's strategic location near the Caucasian mountains and the Caspian Sea offers unique opportunities for leveraging satellite technologies to boost the agriculture and fishing industries, making it a major regional exporter. Satellite communications also enhance digital inclusion by extending connectivity throughout Azerbaijan.
Azerbaijan has capitalized on these opportunities by establishing a Space Academy through Azercosmos, ensuring the development of skilled personnel for the local space industry. This initiative aligns with Azerbaijan's hosting of COP29, where space technologies are expected to play a significant role in climate monitoring and achieving SDGs, such as Zero Hunger, Quality Education, and Sustainable Cities.
Drozdova believes that prioritizing education and technology transfer through initiatives like the Space Academy will drive scientific research and foster New Space startups in Azerbaijan. This approach will strengthen Azerbaijan's integration into the international space ecosystem.
The potential for expanding cooperation between Azerbaijan/Azercosmos and Intersputnik is immense, particularly in satellite communications, joint projects, and sectoral development. As a signatory to Intersputnik, Azercosmos actively participates in initiatives that enhance international cooperation in the space sector, such as the Intersputnik Youth Far Beyond Borders project and industry capacity-building seminars.