From 4 to 6 October, Dr. Lana Francesca Dreimane, Deputy State Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia, participated in the 77th International Astronautical Congress and related high-level events in Antalya, Türkiye, where current issues in space policy, security, science, and technological development were discussed.
On 4 October, Dr. Lana Francesca Dreimane took part in the meeting of ministers and parliamentarians organised by the International Astronautical Federation, which focused on space solutions for societal resilience, climate change mitigation, and strengthening security. In her address, the Latvian representative emphasised the importance of satellite technologies in crisis management, the protection of critical infrastructure, and informed decision-making.
“Space services provide functions that we often take for granted in our daily lives, such as navigation, communications, and accurate observation data. At the same time, they become particularly important when society faces natural disasters, security threats, or other challenges. For Latvia, it is important to strengthen our capacity to use these solutions for the benefit of society and to enhance resilience,” emphasised Dr. Lana Francesca Dreimane.
In her speech, she highlighted Latvia’s practical experience in applying space technologies, including the use of Earth observation data for forest monitoring and environmental process analysis, as well as radio astronomy research conducted using the RT-32 radio telescope in Irbene. She also underscored the importance of cooperation between research institutions, businesses, and the public sector to ensure that space data and technologies contribute to the development of new solutions and their wider application in the public interest.
As part of the Congress, Latvia also participated in the meeting of Artemis Accords signatory states on 6 October. Latvia joined this international initiative in April 2026, reaffirming its support for the safe, peaceful, and responsible exploration and use of outer space. The meeting addressed strengthening international cooperation, promoting sustainable practices in lunar exploration, and recommendations for mitigating risks posed by space debris. Participants also endorsed joint documents on reducing space debris-related risks and on support mechanisms for emerging space nations, aimed at fostering capacity-building and facilitating their full participation in international space cooperation.
The International Astronautical Congress is one of the world’s most significant events in the space sector, bringing together representatives of governments, national space agencies, research institutions, and space industry companies each year. Congress participants were also briefed on current developments and future priorities by Dr. Josef Aschbacher, Director General of the European Space Agency, and Matt Anderson, Deputy Administrator of NASA.
Participation in the Congress strengthens Latvia’s role within the international space community and promotes potential opportunities for cooperation. It provides a platform to engage in discussions on the development of the space sector, the sustainable use of space, and security-related issues, while fostering collaboration between Latvian researchers and companies in international projects and advancing the application of space technologies for science, the economy, and society.
