Resolution on space policy takes European integration to new frontier
'Europe is now unified in outer space as well,' said Maria van der Hoeven, Dutch Minister for Economic Affairs and current chair of the European Space Agency (ESA) Council at ministerial level. The minister was welcoming the adoption by ministers responsible for space activities, of the first ever European Space Policy. Ms van der Hoeven was joined in celebrating the resolution's adoption by EU Enterprise and Industry Commissioner Günter Verheugen, Director General of the European Space Agency (ESA) Jacques Dordain, and Germany's Federal Government Coordinator for Aerospace Policy, Peter Hintze, representing the German Presidency of the EU Council. 'It seems paradoxical to say that this is a major event,' said Mr Dordain, referring to ESA's longstanding involvement in space activities. But he nonetheless recognised the consensus between 29 countries that made the resolution possible as quite an achievement. 'The ESP is a starting point. In 10 years time we will not be judged on the resolution, but on what we do. The fruits are in our labour,' said Mr Dordain. Ms van der Hoeven also called for the policy to be implemented now, and highlighted five areas for immediate attention: - better coordination of investment in space; - identifying the final users of the Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) system, as well as users' needs; - improving coordination between civil and military programmes; - boosting competition through innovation; - and pursuing a European approach to space on the global stage, based on European values. Günter Verheugen said that it was 'high time' for such a resolution. Europe already faces stiff competition from the US and Russia, who wish to remain the world's leading space powers, and now China is leading a group of other emerging economies hoping for a place at the top of the space ladder, said the Commissioner. But Europe should not be regarded as the 'poor cousin', added Mr Verheugen. Europe's scientists can be measured against those anywhere in the world, and they also bring with them much experience in space technologies and exploration, he said. Pressed on what is actually new in the resolution, speakers referred to the political basis that the document provides for preparing programmes that will be run by the European Commission or ESA or the Member States. More concrete proposals will come later. 'I do not believe that the period of major discoveries in space is behind us. I want to open a new chapter in the 21st century, and open the benefits to citizens the world over,' said Mr Verheugen.