Manama: Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, received Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, CEO of the Space Science Agency, and was presented with the first full satellite image of the Kingdom of Bahrain captured by the Bahraini satellite Al Munther. During the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized Bahrain's investment in future sciences and the knowledge economy as a reflection of the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. This initiative aims to strengthen the Kingdom's position among leading nations in the field of space science.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah described the establishment of the Bahrain Space Agency as a key outcome of that strategic vision. He praised the efforts led by His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, National Security Adviser, Royal Guard Commander, and Secretary-General of the Supreme Defence Council, for advancing the agency's work, accelerating scientific and technological progress, fulfilling its objectives, and preparing Bahraini talent to lead the specialised sector.
Shaikh Khalid also congratulated the agency and its staff on the first anniversary of the successful launch of Al Munther, acknowledging the satellite's continued efficient and precise operation in orbit. He noted that this demonstrates the success of Bahrain's plans to build national capabilities in advanced space technologies. The Deputy Prime Minister further highlighted the importance of using the satellite's data to support projects and plans across ministries and government entities. He cited its value in enhancing urban planning, developing infrastructure, strengthening environmental and climate monitoring, and improving the management of natural, water, and agricultural resources.
For his part, Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Aseeri expressed his appreciation to the Deputy Prime Minister for his continued support. He affirmed the agency's commitment to harnessing its capabilities and satellite data in support of Bahrain's comprehensive development goals, aiming for further successes that enhance the Kingdom's standing regionally and internationally.