The ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence held discussions on Tuesday with the High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Cyprus, Shri Manish, on forging a new strategic partnership in space technology.

According to a press release issued by the Centre, the meeting marked the beginning of a constructive dialogue aimed at building a sustainable and mutually beneficial collaboration between the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence, Indian government bodies, research institutions, and private organizations.

Talks centered on the Centre’s advanced expertise and infrastructure in Earth Observation, Remote Sensing, and Geoinformatics, as well as Cyprus’ strategic geographic position as a gateway between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Discussions also highlighted the upcoming Presidency of the Republic of Cyprus at the Council of the European Union in 2026.

The High Commissioner was also briefed on the newly established Space BIC by ERATOSTHENES, Cyprus’ first Space Business Incubator, designed to support startups and entrepreneurs in the space sector. The initiative aims to foster cross-border collaboration and innovation, as well as introduce pioneering services, platforms, and training programs in space technologies and applications.

According to the press release, special emphasis was placed on the exchange of best practices and staff mobility, with the goal of strengthening research cooperation, entrepreneurship, and capacity-building in space and geospatial technologies.

Representing the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence at the meeting were Professor Diofantos Hadjimitsis, CEO; Professor Andreas Anayiotos, Director of the Technology Transfer Office; Kyriakos Themistocleous, Director of External Relations and Business Development; Andreas Andreou, Business Development and Technology Commercialization Officer; Neal Peter Beckett, Business Development Officer; and Eliana Iliofotu, Head of Communications.

Professor Andreas Anayiotos stated: “India is a global leader in space research and entrepreneurship, and this dialogue lays the foundation for a truly meaningful partnership. Through the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence and Space BIC, a unique opportunity arises to connect Cyprus and India in promoting startups, innovation, and scientific excellence for the benefit of both regions.”