The ceremony of signing the Artemis Accords international agreement was held in Washington ("Deals of Artemis"). Latvia became the 62nd participant of the agreement on peaceful and transparent space exploration. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman emphasized, that each new signatory strengthens the shared vision for the future of research.
On behalf of Latvia, the document was signed by the Minister of Education and Science Dache Melbarde, who said during her speech, that participation in Artemis Accords is an investment in student development, researchers and innovators of Latvia. Melbarde also emphasized, that her country is already contributing to the global space ecosystem through industry and scientific research.
For reference: The United States, along with seven other nations, initiated Artemis Accords in 2020 year. The document was a response to the growing interest of governments and private companies in lunar programs. The signatory countries of the Agreement have committed themselves to act peacefully and transparently, provide assistance when needed, to open scientific data for all mankind, avoid interfering in the activities of other participants and preserve historically significant sites and artifacts.
Last month, NASA announced plans for regular and affordable trips to the moon with the goal of establishing a long-term base, after which the representatives over 50 member countries of the Artemis Agreement gathered in Washington, to discuss new opportunities for science and technology.
Source: https://universemagazine.com