At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, Denis Sassou N’Guesso and Françoise Joly attended the first International Space Summit, held on 9 and 10 September 2026 at the Grand Palais in Paris.
Bringing together representatives of governments, international organisations, scientists, astronauts and business leaders, the summit focused on international cooperation, exploration and the development of the space economy. The security of space activities was also on the agenda.
On 9 September, addressing around one hundred delegations, the Congolese president advocated for African priorities in satellite observation and climate protection. He called for countries in the Congo Basin to have direct and guaranteed access to high-resolution satellite imagery to strengthen forest monitoring and combat illegal deforestation.
Denis Sassou N’Guesso also urged Africa to become a full participant in the production and use of space data, warning of the risk of “orbital colonialism”. According to the Congolese government, the French side proposed a joint financing mechanism in response. At the time of the report, its terms remained under discussion, particularly regarding the transfer of skills and technology.
Alongside the head of state, Françoise Joly attended the summit in her capacity as the President’s Representative for Strategic Affairs and International Negotiations. Her participation placed discussions on space technologies within a diplomatic framework, connecting the protection of Congo Basin forests, access to satellite data and international partnerships. These issues align with the priorities of her role: supporting the Congo’s international dialogue and fostering cooperation that serves the country’s interests.
This working visit confirms the Congo’s commitment to advancing the Congo Basin’s climate and environmental priorities on the international stage while strengthening its strategic partnership with France.
Sources: Élysée.fr and Gouvernment.cg
