In a landmark event marking Africa’s advancing role in space exploration and governance, U.S. Space Forces Europe and Africa Commander, Brig. Gen. Jacob Middleton, and Command Senior Enlisted Leader, Chief Master Sgt. Alex Birkle, joined international dignitaries in Cairo for the formal inauguration of the African Space Agency.

The U.S. delegation, representing various arms of American space, diplomatic, and scientific agencies, included Stephanie S. Sullivan, U.S. Ambassador to the African Union; Herro Mustafa Garg, U.S. Ambassador to Egypt; Col. David Kobs, Senior Defense Official and Defense Attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Cairo; Juan Caro, Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Affairs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); and Karen Feldstein, Associate Administrator for International and Interagency Relations at NASA.

The day commenced with a high-level briefing at the U.S. Embassy, where the delegation was updated on Egypt’s current political, economic, and security context. From there, the officials proceeded to the African Space Agency’s grand opening ceremony—a milestone that underscores the continent’s expanding presence and ambition in space science and policy.

During the ceremony, U.S. representatives highlighted the importance of transparency, international cooperation, and the peaceful use of outer space. Their statements reaffirmed America’s commitment to supporting Africa’s space programs in alignment with globally recognized standards and norms.

In the afternoon, Brig. Gen. Middleton held a bilateral meeting with Rear Adm. Mohamed A. Omran, head of the Egyptian Armed Forces’ space program. The discussion explored future collaboration in space operations between the United States and Egypt, with a focus on technical assistance and capacity-building.

This historic visit not only reinforces the United States’ strategic partnerships across Africa but also amplifies global efforts to promote a secure, cooperative, and responsible space environment.