Panama has officially become the 49th signatory of the Artemis Accords, marking a significant milestone in international cooperation for space exploration. The signing ceremony took place this morning at NASA headquarters, where Ambassador José Miguel Alemán Healy signed on behalf of the Government of Panama. The event was attended by State Department Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Tony Fernandes and NASA Administrator Bill Nelson.
Strengthening U.S.-Panama Relations
The United States warmly welcomes Panama’s commitment to the Artemis Accords. This agreement reflects the deepening partnership between the two nations, building on more than a century of bilateral collaboration spanning economic, security, and cultural ties.
Panama’s strategic role in supporting space exploration dates back to the 1960s, when the Panama Canal facilitated the transit of oversized NASA components destined for the International Space Station. This legacy of cooperation continues, with a NASA exhibit set to open in January 2025 at Panama’s renowned Biomuseo, showcasing U.S. achievements in space and their benefits for humanity.
About the Artemis Accords
Established in 2020 by the United States and seven other countries, the Artemis Accords outline a practical set of principles to guide responsible and sustainable space exploration. By joining the Accords, Panama aligns itself with 48 other nations—including Angola, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, and the United Kingdom—in affirming these principles. The Accords address key areas such as transparency, peaceful exploration, sustainable practices, and the protection of space heritage.
The Accords’ implementation is led by the U.S. Department of State and NASA, demonstrating a global commitment to advancing civil space activities in a collaborative and ethical manner.
A Shared Vision for Space Exploration
The signing of the Artemis Accords underscores Panama’s growing role in the global space community and its commitment to fostering innovation, education, and international collaboration. This partnership exemplifies how space exploration can bring nations together to address common challenges and inspire future generations.
The United States looks forward to continuing its strong partnership with Panama and other signatory nations, working collectively to unlock the vast potential of space exploration for the benefit of all humankind.