Brussels, 20/02/2013 (Agence Europe) - 2014 should see a much closer relationship developing between the EU and the European Space Agency (ESA). The European Space Agency is an independent inter-governmental organisation, which involves 20 European countries. The EU27 adopted conclusions to this end, during the Competitiveness Council on Tuesday 19 February. These conclusions pave the way to a much broader rethink regarding the organisation in the next few months.
In their conclusions, member states acknowledged that the framework agreement adopted in 2004 and currently still in force, is no longer compatible with the objective of a more efficient European space policy that can use the potential of a joint EU/ESA remit to the full. It is therefore necessary to review and improve the relationship between the EU and the ESA, with a view to building a closer relationship. This closer relationship is, above all, expected to be more coherent and co-ordinated, in view of the greater role the EU will be playing in the space sector.
The Council therefore intends to kick-start a reflection and analysis process of the resources for developing this relationship. Cost-benefit analyses begin as part of this initiative, in an effort to formulate clear proposals for bringing the EU and ESA closer together. A decision on the most appropriate formula for developing this rapprochement is expected to be made in 2014. Until then, the European Commission will be working on this subject, in collaboration with the board of directors at ESA and in cooperation with their respective member states. (MD/trans/fl)