From Antalya to Samarkand: Uzbekistan on the global space dialogue agenda

Today, the space industry is no longer limited to science and research. It is becoming a strategic priority that demonstrates the technological, economic, and diplomatic potential of states. The scale of these developments is evident at the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026) in Antalya.

Türkiye is hosting this international forum for the first time, organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF). According to official data, the congress brought together thousands of scientists, engineers, and representatives of space and government agencies and private companies from 108 countries.

The Congress focuses on satellite technologies, Earth remote sensing, space sustainability, scientific research, next-generation space systems, private sector participation, and international regulation of space activities.

The adoption of the Antalya Declaration, which promotes the peaceful use of outer space, was a key highlight of the congress.

The Uzbekistan delegation, led by the Minister of Digital Technologies Sherzod Shermatov is participating in the congress. Representatives from Uzbekistan are meeting with members of the international space community to discuss expanding international relations, share best practices, and identify new areas of cooperation.

On October 6, representatives of Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Türkiye signed the first agreement on cooperation in the space industry within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) at the congress. The document aims to establish an institutional framework for implementing joint projects in satellite manufacturing, space technology development, scientific research, industrial cooperation, and human resource capacity building.

This process is directly related to another historical event for Uzbekistan – IAC 2028. According to the International Astronautical Federation’s decision, the 79th International Astronautical Congress will take place in Samarkand on October 9-13, 2028.

In this context, the Antalya Congress is becoming a special space for Uzbekistan not only to study the latest trends in the global space industry but also to share experiences that will help prepare for the large-scale international forum in Samarkand in two years.

Nodira Kayimova, UzA

Türkiye