The Dragon Program conference, a pivotal China-Europe scientific collaboration, kicked off in Lisbon on Monday, ushering in the next phase of Earth observation with the transition from Dragon 5 to Dragon 6. This five-day symposium, organized by China's Ministry of Science and Technology and the European Space Agency (ESA), brought together nearly 300 experts and scholars from both regions to celebrate past achievements and chart the future course of the program.
The newly signed Dragon 6 agreement, spanning from 2024 to 2028, introduces ten key themes, including land, atmosphere, climate change, and big data. This phase aims to enhance the application of satellite remote sensing technology in environmental protection and disaster mitigation, reflecting a strong commitment to combating global challenges.
\"The Dragon Program stands as a model of China-Europe scientific and technological cooperation,\" remarked China's ambassador to Portugal, Zhao Bentang, during the opening ceremony. Zhao highlighted the significant contributions both parties have made to global scientific innovation and talent cultivation over the years.
Dai Gang, director-general of the Department of International Cooperation at China's Ministry of Science and Technology, emphasized in a video speech that the Dragon Program has forged a stable joint research team for Earth observation, leading to internationally recognized research outcomes and providing critical technological support for addressing climate change.
Gao Xiang, director general of the China Science and Technology Exchange Center, noted that the program has continuously improved its cooperation mechanisms and expanded its funding scope over the past two decades. \"The Dragon Program has broadened its research fields, data sources, and the number of participating scientists, significantly contributing to the economic and social development of both sides,\" Gao stated.
Josef Aschbacher, director-general of ESA, praised the Dragon Program as one of the longest-standing and most fruitful cooperative projects between China and Europe. He added that the program not only facilitates exchanges between scientists but also promotes the application of technological achievements, ultimately benefiting global environmental initiatives.
Starting this year, the management of the Dragon Program on the Chinese side will transition to the China Science and Technology Exchange Center, collaborating closely with ESA's Earth Observation Department to ensure the continued success and growth of this vital Earth observation partnership.
Reference(s):
China, Europe boost Earth observation efforts with new agreement
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