Closing remarks - 16th Session of Consultative Meetings on High-Level Policy on Satellite Matters (CM-16)

Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, dear friends,

As we come to the close of this very productive meeting, let me first express my sincere appreciation to all participating space agencies and WMO Members.  

The partnership between WMO and satellite operators is long-standing and fundamental and enables the global community to better observe, understand and predict the Earth system.

The discussions during this meeting reaffirm that it is essential that we continue this collaboration and partnership. It is based on trust, data sharing and common values and it is more important than ever before.

Let me go back to what we have heard these days, to what you have been telling us:  

WMO's convening power is crucial: in identifying global requirements, in communicating on the value of the satellite observations in building weather climate and water intelligence, and in creating a space for all Members and space agencies to dialogue

And to be more efficient, you have requested that you put in place some concrete process to ensure that WMO maximizes the application of space based areas across its activities

Today, I also heard strong support for the WMO Commons and a proposal to try to engage different players in the delivery of observations (e.g. the space telecommunications industry as a platform)

We have heard inspiring examples of new satellite missions and technological innovation.

For instance, the recent launch of the Feng Yung 3H low-Earth orbit satellite in September 2025 represents another important contribution to the global observing system.  

In Europe, partners continue to invest in the next generation of global observing systems. Earlier this year, the EUMETSAT Council unanimously approved the EUMETSAT Polar System – Sterna (EPS-Sterna), a constellation of polar-orbiting microsatellites that will provide high-frequency microwave observations of atmospheric temperature, humidity and clouds.

Several key themes have emerged at CM-16.

The growing role of artificial intelligence and machine learning is shaping new requirements for satellite observations. We must ensure that these remain comprehensive, interoperable and openly accessible.

Satellite data sharing is paramount for the WMO Unified Data Policy and the implementation of WIS 2.0 and the space-based component of WIGOS. These frameworks are helping ensure that critical Earth observation data can reach all users, including those in regions where access has historically been limited.

WMO’s overriding priority remains Early Warnings for All. And here, once again, satellite observations help us protect the most vulnerable regions.

The space ecosystem is evolving rapidly, with the growing role of commercial providers and new satellite constellations. We must maximize the potential of innovation whilst also maintaining continued coordination to ensure quality assurance and sustainability.

In this context, the role of WMO remains clear and essential. We continue to strengthen alignment across our constituent bodies, including INFCOM and SERCOM, so that scientific advances translate into services for the global good.

WMO serves as a bridge between the providers of observations and the communities that rely on them.

I therefore welcome the call of CGMS for a strong WMO Space Programme to be the authoritative voice between the WMO user community and CGMS satellite agencies.

Looking ahead, our task is clear.

We must strengthen the dialogue between WMO and the space community and continue building partnerships to maintain the infrastructure that is the backbone of our forecasting system.

The theme of this years World Meteorological Day on 23 March is Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow.  

The satellite community is a linchpin in both observing today and protecting tomorrow.

I thank you all.