Establishment and development of Myanmar Space Agency is realization of country's dream, President says

■ Should be able to send astronauts as well as launch satellites into space The establishment and development of the Myanmar Space Agency (MSA) is the realization of a dream for the country, said President Min Aung Hlaing. The President made these remarks while attending and providing guidance at the ceremony for the handover and demonstration of technological projects completed by the Myanmar Space Agency (MSA) during the 100-day plan period of the national government. The President stated that the establishment of the Myanmar Space Agency and the development of its operations are the realization of a dream for the nation. He added that every country has its own dreams and aspirations for its development and technological advancement. Regarding space technology, he noted that many countries, including Myanmar, have ideas and aspirations they wish to realize, but implementing these aspirations is not an easy task. He further explained that Myanmar has been interested in and working on space technology for a long time, and human resources have been trained in advance. During his tenure, he sent scholars abroad to study space-related technologies. Additionally, he has supported the development of space technologies from all aspects, and currently, the Myanmar Space Agency has been systematically established, reaching a stage where its operations can be carried out. The President emphasized that the world is constantly evolving, and therefore, it is imperative to understand and utilize space technology beneficially. He stated that space technology can be used to gain detailed information about geographical changes, volcanic eruptions, and floods occurring in Myanmar and around the world. He highlighted that conducting research using satellites brings significant benefits to the Earth's surface. Combining ground-based data with information obtained from satellites in space can lead to substantial advantages. Therefore, he stressed the necessity of utilizing space technology, which can greatly contribute to the nation's development. The President mentioned that he has supported and implemented measures for the advancement of Myanmar's space technology, considering the nation's long-term interests. He believes that the progress in space technology will bring considerable benefits to the country. The research and analysis displayed in the exhibition halls today will also be greatly helpful for the nation's interests. He added that not only should satellites be launched into space, but astronauts should also be sent, which would further enhance the nation's prestige. The knowledge, technology, and data obtained will be highly beneficial to the nation. Therefore, he urged all operational activities related to the development of space technology to be carried out successfully and systematically. The President expressed pride in the Myanmar Space Agency for its successful efforts during the government's 100-day plan period. He stated that if the nation continues to strive with the interests of the country and its citizens, and the development of their socio-economic lives in mind, Myanmar will become a nation that can proudly stand in the field of space technology regionally and globally. After the ceremony, the President met cordially with the astronaut candidates who have been preliminarily selected to serve as Myanmar's first astronauts. He expressed his great pride and joy in meeting these candidates selected for the nation. He mentioned that the initiative to train astronauts and develop space technology began a few years ago, and he is pleased that these individuals have volunteered and been selected with a strong desire to serve as the nation's first astronauts. He stated that the selection process will continue through various stages, ultimately choosing the nation's first astronauts. The astronaut candidates have successfully passed through written, practical, and health examinations, and have received training in space-related experience, knowledge, and technology. Therefore, he concluded that they are valuable human resources in the field of space technology, both for themselves and for the nation.