Canadian, European space agencies reaffirm relations amid political, economic anxiety [Video]

The Canadian and European space agencies say economic and geopolitical turmoil are forcing them to work closer together.

Leaders at both organizations signed a joint statement today at Canadian Space Agency headquarters south of Montreal reaffirming their co-operation.

Josef Aschbacher, director general of the European Space Agency, says space programs are having to contend with economic uncertainty and global conflicts.

His visit comes as the United States is pressuring NATO members to increase their spending on defence — a sector of the economy that is tightly linked to space.

As well, Aschbacher says the United States’ space agency — NASA — could be facing deep budget cuts.

Canadian Space Agency president Lisa Campbell says that in uncertain times it’s important to reaffirm relationships with like-minded allies.

The Canadian Press

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