President Kagame joins global space summit in Paris

President Paul Kagame has met UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany in Paris ahead of the inaugural International Space Summit.

The two discussed Rwanda’s partnership with the UN cultural and education agency in areas including education, science and technology, cultural heritage and the preservation of memory, according to a statement from Urugwiro Village.

President Kagame is in Paris for the two-day summit, which is being co-hosted by France and Germany on 9 and 10 September.

The summit brings together heads of state and government, international organisations, space agencies, scientists and private-sector representatives to discuss the future of space.

The discussions are focusing on the space economy, scientific exploration and the sustainable use of outer space.

The summit includes several roundtable discussions, including one on Africa’s ambitions and role in the future of space.

The discussions will examine how African countries can use space technologies and capabilities to support development, strengthen scientific and technological capacity, and contribute to shaping the global space agenda.

African leaders and other participants are also expected to discuss cooperation and partnerships in areas including satellite technology, data and scientific research.

The summit is expected to focus on strengthening international cooperation and promoting the responsible and sustainable use of space.