Brussels, 25 November 2025
EU Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius will attend the European Space Agency (ESA) Ministerial Council meeting on 26 – 27 November to advance discussions on Europe’s space policy priorities and the EU–ESA strategic partnership. The ESA Ministerial Council is expected to take key decisions on its programmes that can speed up the development of priority EU space systems proposed for funding in the next EU long-term budget.
On the first day, Commissioner Kubilius will deliver a statement during the opening session of the ESA Ministerial, following German Federal Minister of Research, Technology and Space, Dorothee Bär, who is hosting the meeting. Speaking alongside ministers from ESA Member States, he will highlight Europe’s shared ambition to strengthen its space capabilities.
On the second day, Commissioner Kubilius will visit OHB SE, a European space manufacturer, to engage with industry on the implementation of the Union Space Programme. He will then take part in a joint ESA–European Commission press point, followed by media engagements. Commissioner Kubilius’ statements throughout the two days will be live-streamed on EBS.
The visit reflects the Commission’s commitment to fostering a strong, competitive and resilient European space sector. Strong EU-ESA cooperation is essential to make the best use of resources and to combine political leadership with ESA’s technical expertise.
Source – EU Commission