Swedish Space Corporation halts renewal of contract for on-ground space-tracking with China, citing changes in geopolitical situation

State-run Swedish Space Corporation (SSC) signed a contract with China years ago to assist in the operation of Chinese satellites and allow the usage of a strategic space-tracking station in Australia. However, the company indicated on Monday that they would not renew the contract or seek new business dealings with China after it expires. This decision will inflict heavy losses to Beijing's navigational and space exploration capabilities in the Pacific region.

Anni Bolenius, head of communications at SSC, told Reuters on Monday, "The geopolitical situation has changed since these contracts were signed in the early 2000s. We have to assess where we can do business and it's harder for us to make that assessment regarding the Chinese market now." The contract between SSC and China pertained coordinating the on-ground operations of Chinese satellites, which included meteorological and earth-monitoring satellites.

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Source: Apple Daily #Sep21

https://hk.appledaily.com/international/20200921/7J5FWISRTBFDPH7JGR44T7T5FQ/