EU Envoy Warns Over China in Space

New Delhi – The European Union’s special envoy for Space, Marjolijn van Deelen, underscored the importance of a rules-based approach to space exploration during a visit to India, signaling a subtle but pointed response to increasing concerns about China’s growing influence in orbital activities. Speaking in New Delhi while seeking to bolster space cooperation between India and Europe, Van Deelen stressed that access to space and the benefits of space technology should be universally available. This message arrives at a time of heightened geopolitical tension, with many Western nations expressing apprehension over potential weaponization of space and assertive maneuvers by China. While framing the discussion around collaborative benefit, the envoy’s emphasis on a “rules-based order” clearly indicates a desire to establish clear international norms and prevent any single nation from dominating this critical frontier. The visit signals a European push to strengthen ties with India as a key partner in maintaining stability and promoting responsible behavior in space.