Media: White House discouraged US space companies from attending Paris summit
The administration of US President Donald Trump advised major American space companies not to take part in a summit in Paris to be hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron. Anadolu Agency reports, citing Politico.
Warnings for companies
Representatives of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy warned company representatives, including those from SpaceX and Astra. According to Politico, officials said participation in the event could be interpreted as “tacit support” for European Union policy.
Company executives were also told that the summit’s structure does not take the US position into account and could “undermine the efforts of US industry.” After that, company representatives reportedly hesitated over whether to maintain their participation in the event.
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Criticism of the summit
According to Politico, the White House accused France of anti-competitive practices and insufficient coordination with Washington regarding the summit’s agenda. Officials from the Office of Science and Technology Policy also expressed concern over China’s presence at the symposium.
At the same time, the office said it had not given companies mandatory instructions, and that the final decision on participation remains with them. The summit is scheduled for September 9–10 at the Grand Palais in Paris. The event is intended to bring together representatives of space agencies, scientists, and military officials.
