Minister Logar at the International Space Summit on the future of the European space sector

With more than 120 delegations in attendance, the Summit focused on international cooperation, the development of the space economy, the sustainable use of space, security, and future research and innovation initiatives.

Summit participants adopted several joint declarations expressing their support for closer international cooperation on the safe and sustainable use of space, open access to space-based data, a multilateral framework for the governance of satellite communications, and the continued development of Copernicus, one of Europe's key Earth observation programmes.

The Summit also provided an opportunity to discuss the future of the European space sector. European representatives endorsed a common approach aimed at strengthening Europe's strategic autonomy and competitiveness in space while reaffirming their commitment to enhancing Europe's space exploration capabilities and advancing international cooperation in the field.

Speaking at the European session, Minister Logar emphasised: "If Europe is to remain a leading space power in the years ahead, it must strengthen its strategic autonomy while enhancing resilience, unity and competitiveness. Space is no longer solely a domain of exploration; it has become a key driver of technological progress, economic growth and security. In this context, it is essential to ensure that small and medium-sized enterprises from all Member States have equal opportunities to participate in European space programmes, as these companies make a significant contribution to innovation, knowledge creation and the development of the European economy."

During the Summit, Minister Logar also met with representatives of European institutions, partner countries and key stakeholders from the space sector. The discussions focused on opportunities to further involve Slovenian companies and research organisations in European space programmes and strengthen cooperation within the European Space Agency.

After becoming a full member of the European Space Agency (ESA) on 1 January 2025, Slovenia doubled its contribution to ESA programmes at the Agency's Ministerial Council in November of the same year, creating new opportunities for Slovenian stakeholders and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the development of the space sector. Slovenian companies and research organisations are collaborating successfully on the development of advanced technologies, satellite systems, robotics, Earth observation and other space applications that enhance the competitiveness of the European economy and support the digital and green transitions.

Minister Logar's participation in the International Space Summit underscores Slovenia's active role in shaping Europe's space sector and strengthening the strategic autonomy essential to its long-term technological and economic resilience.

Slovenia is also pursuing a range of initiatives to support the space sector. A call for proposals to select the organiser of the Astronaut for a Day - Slovenia competition was launched this Tuesday. In 2027, the competition will give students aged 14 to 19 a unique opportunity to experience a selection process similar to that used for astronauts. The top ten candidates will have the opportunity to take part in a parabolic flight. The call is open until 13:00 on 20 October 2026.

Author Ministry of the Economy, Labour and Sport