This is an example of the high-level discussions taking place at UNISPACE III this week in an effort to enhance the awareness of the needs of developing nations and to discuss how they can be met.

Dr. Marco Nogueira Barbosa, Director of INPE, Brazil stated that access to space-related technology for developing countries is difficult and this has to change. The priorities of such countries are health and basic education but a huge investment in space-related products to assist these areas is essential in years to come.

A major expansion in the next 10 years was predicted by Mr. Hironori Aihara, General Manager and Executive Vice-President of the Mitsubishi Corporation. He said his company wants to create a "global solutions network" to support its five initiatives to use space for the betterment of humankind. Nations should focus on particular areas of needs and provide expertise. Governments should act as catalysts to solve problems.

The question of the export regulations of developed nations was mentioned by Dr. Barbosa to illustrate how difficult it had been for his country to import a much-needed super-computer. Brazil eventually received the equipment after six years of negotiations. This situation has to be improved for developing nations, he added.

Responding to questions on how the cost of satellite use can be reduced, the panelists proposed time-sharing of satellites, developing "constellations" of satellites and the development of multiple slots as well as the possibility of combining the finances of countries to develop a joint satellite programme.

The proximity of the delegates from developing countries and the representatives from the space industry at UNISPACE III is a unique opportunity to explore fulfilling the space-related needs of developing countries and to further increase the business of the space industry.

UN Space Reports at SpaceDaily