Sun Apr 20 15:31:11 UTC 2025: ## EU Envoy Calls for India-EU Space Cooperation to Address Growing Orbital Threats

**New Delhi, April 20, 2025** – Marjolijn van Deelen, the European Union’s Special Envoy for Space, has urged closer cooperation between India and the EU to establish international norms for responsible behavior in space. Speaking to *The Hindu*, van Deelen highlighted the growing concerns surrounding space debris generated by anti-satellite (ASAT) weapon testing and the increasingly risky maneuvers of Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPOs).

Van Deelen emphasized the need for a joint framework to regulate RPOs, which involve spacecraft operating in close proximity to other objects. While acknowledging the civilian benefits of RPOs, she stressed the need for international agreements to prevent potentially hostile actions. She expressed concern over the debris created by ASAT tests, noting the EU’s support for a UN ban on destructive ASAT testing. While acknowledging that India conducted an ASAT test in 2019, she stated that no discussions on the matter had yet taken place and that future conversations would focus on establishing cooperative measures.

Beyond ASAT tests, van Deelen cited cyberattacks and spoofing as significant threats to space-based services. She highlighted the dangers posed by unauthorized RPOs, particularly those involving sensitive satellites and actors with unfriendly relations. The sheer amount of space debris already present also poses a major risk to the safe operation of satellites.

Van Deelen’s visit coincided with the Global Technology Summit in India. She proposed a bilateral “space dialogue” to identify discrepancies and gaps in existing regulations, fostering a more robust environment for space businesses. The EU’s upcoming Space Act, while not regulating third parties, aims to enhance European space industry cooperation and promote safety and sustainability standards. The envoy expressed hope for a deepened engagement with India, establishing a comprehensive space security dialogue involving all relevant stakeholders.

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