The U.S. and Saudi Arabia agree to collaborate on space exploration and research.

• NASA and the State Department announced that the U.S. and Saudi Arabia have reached a framework agreement for civilian space research and exploration.
• The U.S. was represented by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, while the Saudi Arabia Space Agency CEO Mohammed bin Saud Al-Tamimi signed on behalf of the kingdom.
• The Saudi Space Commission was established by the government in 2018 to enhance the kingdom's space capabilities and increase private sector participation.

NASA and the State Department announced on Tuesday that the U.S. and Saudi Arabia have agreed to work together on civilian space research and exploration, with the aim of strengthening their alliance.

A cooperation framework agreement was signed by the two nations covering aeronautics, education, and Earth science.

The Artemis Accords, signed by the U.S. in 2020 and Saudi Arabia in 2022, were noted in the agreement as crucial for a "transparent, safe, and responsible exploration of space," as stated by the State Department.

The U.S. was represented by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, while the Saudi Arabia Space Agency CEO Mohammed bin Saud Al-Tamimi signed on behalf of the kingdom.

"I am excited to enhance our collaboration for the future of exploration, as we embark on this journey together," Nelson stated. "We are currently experiencing a golden age of exploration, fueled by partnership. This new agreement will outline our joint efforts and shared discoveries for the betterment of mankind."

In May, Nelson traveled to Saudi Arabia to meet with government and Saudi Space commission officials to discuss civil space cooperation as part of the U.S.-Saudi partnership, according to NASA.

The Saudi Space Commission was established by the government in 2018 to enhance the kingdom's space capabilities and increase private sector participation.

The Commission is actively working on expanding the space sector as part of the kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to modernize the economy and reduce dependence on oil revenue streams.