National statement at the 68th session of COPUOS

United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS)

68th session

Vienna, 25 June 2025

Delivered by the Permenent Representative of Latvia Ambassador Raimonds Oškalns

Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,

Latvia fully aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union, and in addition I would like to add a few brief remarks in my national capacity.

I wish to extend our sincere appreciation to the director Ms. Aarti Holla-Maini and her office in fulfilling the entrusted mandate, particularly, in the face of increasing fiscal constraints that all our nations face. We deeply value your continued efforts to ensure effective management while promoting inclusive space agenda, and assuring meaningful participation in the UN80 Reform process.

On behalf of my Government, I would like to inform that Latvia officially joined the Outer Space Treaty. We joined this foundational international framework that has long underpinned the peaceful, cooperative and responsible use of outer space.

Accession reflects our deep commitment to upholding international law and contributing constructively to the multilateralism, particularly when it is under an unprecedented strain, as a result of trends and events that challenge regional security and global cooperation, not least Russia’s continued war of aggression against Ukraine.

Chair,

Now a few words about Latvia’s contribution.

Our space industry is thriving, with over 50 companies and 200 professionals developing innovative, high-impact solutions that contribute to international space missions and scientific research.

Latvia hosts valuable space infrastructure, including Northern Europe’s largest radio telescope, which supports telecommunications and deep space exploration.

Latvia stands out in niche technologies, especially those requiring high-precision measurements of time and space, and is a leader in satellite data applications for forestry and for other key sectors of economy.

To sustain this momentum, Latvia is also expanding its education and research in the space domain, strengthening long-term growth and competitiveness.

In autumn, Latvia will host the international BIG DATA FROM SPACE 2025 Conference, which will take place from 29 September - 3 October in Riga, Latvia.

This event will welcome global leaders in Earth observation, artificial intelligence, and geospatial intelligence to explore the future of data-driven innovation. Please check www.bigdatafromspace2025.org for further information.

As the newest member of the Committee of the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, Latvia looks forward to continuing an active engagement with UNOOSA. Latvia remains committed to advancing the long-term sustainability of outer space activities and promoting transparency and international cooperation.

Thank you, Chair!

Information: Latvia became a fully-fledged member of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space in december of 2024.