Chairperson, the Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space and the Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects are two related issues. That is why we have one statement for both of them.
South Africa, being a member of the United Nations and adhering to the principles applicable to members of the UN and in recognition of internationally binding agreements that arise from this, has ratified these two international conventions.
We should note the fact that space exploration is a development which began with the launch of the first artificial satellite in 1957. Since then, incredible progress has been made, leading to the landing of men on the moon. A look at the number of launchings which have been registered with the United Nations will show the influence of space science and technology on human endeavours.
We should further note the fact that satellites can always be used for communications, weather forecasting, education, and remote sensing of the resources of the earth.
It is the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space that is the focal point of international co-operation in space activities.
The Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space, which was adopted in 1975, ensures that all objects launched are registered with the United Nations and identifiable with a registration number. Secondly, the launching state maintains a register and provides the necessary information to the United Nations.
The benefits attached to working with the conventions include the following: freedom of exploration; an increase in the safety of space activities; an increase in credibility and confidence in South Africa's space operations and enhanced authority; peaceful settlements of disputes; and the protection of victims.
The Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects, having been drafted in 1972, ensures liability of a launching state for any damage caused on earth or to aircraft in flight that may arise from these launchings - taking into account that most hon members also use aircraft. The convention also regulates liability, while international law governs the compensation whenever there are claims arising out of disagreements on the application of the convention.
South Africa has made an investment in a satellite named Sumbandila, a Venda term for "pathfinder". The satellite was launched recently in Russia. It is not economically viable for South Africa to have its own internal launch facility, owing to its having to stand idle for much of the time at a high cost to the country. As a result, there is a bilateral agreement with Russia, hence the launching in Russia.
South Africa is currently working towards concluding an agreement with India. India is using outer space technology for developmental purposes and has a number of programmes involving satellite communication to enhance health and educational programmes. We should note that launch capability is a very expensive option, but raises the level of South Africa's scientific capabilities.
South Africa is currently working with other African states and is in the process of finalising a memorandum of understanding with Nigeria and Algeria. We are in the process of developing a declaration of intent.
South Africa is steadfastly working on the development of a South African scientific capability which would enhance and aid our scientific research and development capacity sustainably. Therefore, we as the committee humbly request this House to support the ratification of these two reports. I thank you, Chair. [Applause.]
Debate concluded.
Question put: That the Report on Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space be adopted. IN FAVOUR: Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, North West, Western Cape.
Report on Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space accordingly adopted in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.
Question put: That the Report on Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects be adopted.
IN FAVOUR: Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, North West, Western Cape. Report on Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects accordingly adopted in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.