Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japan’s science minister Naokazu Takemoto congratulated the United Arab Emirates on the successful launch of its Hope Probe on July 20.

“It was a great honor to take part in the launch of the Hope Mars mission, which is the national project of the UAE,” the minister said, adding “Our (Mistubishi Heavy) H2A rocket has had a 98 percent launch success rate to date.”

The minister said he hoped the mission is a success for the UAE, as the country marks its 50th anniversary in December 2021.

Minister Takemoto met with his Emirati counterpart, Minister of State for Advanced Science, Sarah Al-Amari, on July 30 in Tokyo and discussed bilateral scientific cooperation, in particular the launch of the Hope Probe to Mars.

Minister Takemoto stressed the importance of continuing to enhance cooperation between Japan and the UAE in the field of space, and also expressed his admiration for the country’s achievements as it has become an important center for financial activities, energy and space.

He also welcomed cooperation in providing expertise through Japanese companies in this context.