China has launched a new spacecraft MisrSat 2, increasing space cooperation with the African continent country Egypt. The satellite was jointly tested and developed at the China-funded Satellite Assembly, Integration and Test Center (AITC) in Cairo. MissorSat-2 was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China using a Long March-2C carrier rocket.
MisrSat-2 satellite
It is an optical remote sensing satellite. China has also helped Egypt build a Satellite Assembly Integration Testing Center. The MisrSat-2 project, valued at $72 million, originated from a 2019 agreement between the Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA) and the China National Space Administration. This unprecedented collaboration involved the combined expertise of Chinese and Egyptian scientists and engineers in the design, assembly and testing phases. Notably, this initiative made Egypt the first African country to have satellite assembly and testing capabilities.
Purpose of MisrSat-2 satellite
This satellite will help in matters like agriculture sector, national resources, urban planning, coastal change monitoring etc. The satellite's primary objective is to support Egypt's sustainable development goals in agriculture, mining, water management and environmental protection. Demonstrating the localization of the satellite industry in Egypt, MisrSat-2 is expected to play an important role in monitoring and addressing climate-related challenges.
Growing relationships and joint initiatives
- The launch of MisrSat-2 symbolizes the deepening ties between Egypt and China, especially in the technology and space sectors. This cooperation also reflects the broader trend of expanding trade and investment ties.
- China has become one of Egypt's largest trading partners and investors, with significant bilateral agreements spanning infrastructure, energy, transportation, education and culture.
- Beyond the economic sphere, the two countries have supported each other in various fields and faced challenges together, exemplified by mutual assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The satellite launch serves as evidence of the multifaceted cooperation between China and Egypt, strengthening scientific and technological ties.