Uzbekistan joined the Artemis Accords on Oct. 19, becoming the framework’s 77th signatory as Washington and Tashkent outlined new areas for cooperation, Anadolu Agency reported.
Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov signed the accords in Samarkand after meeting U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The U.S. Department of State said Rubio attended the signing.
In a Telegram statement, Saidov described the meeting as the first session of the Dialogue on Expanded Strategic Partnership. Uzbekistan’s account of the talks also cited energy cooperation.
NASA describes the accords as voluntary principles for peaceful space exploration. Their subjects include sharing scientific findings, helping astronauts in emergencies, using space resources and preventing missions from disrupting one another.
Saidov said participation could create more training opportunities for Uzbek specialists and open paths to future technology transfers and cooperation with NASA and other space agencies.
The State Department said Rubio welcomed Uzbekistan’s interest in U.S. civil nuclear technology. It said the two officials discussed expanding space cooperation and opportunities for American companies, and agreed to deepen cooperation on critical minerals.
Uzbekistan’s presidential press service announced agreements worth $12 billion signed during Rubio’s visit.
