After the launch of a Brazilian satellite,ISRO has agreed to expand space cooperation with Italy by tapping opportunities in earth observation, space science, robotic and human exploration.

At a bilateral meeting in virtual mode held with the Italian Space Agency (ISA) on Wednesday, ISRO agreed to form thematic working groups to work on earth observation, space science and robotic and human exploration, as a part of its strategy to strengthen international partnerships. The virtual meeting was presided over by ISRO Chairman K. Sivan and ISA President Giorgio Saccoccia.

"Both sides reviewed the on-going cooperation and agreed to form more thematic working groups to explore cooperation opportunities in earth observation, space science, robotic exploration and human exploration,” states Bengaluru- headquartered ISRO officials.

Expanding space collaboration with Italy comes days after India launched 637kg Brazilian satellite Amazonia-1 on board PSLV-C51 rocket from ISRO's spaceport at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh, on February 28 2021.

Brazil's Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Marcos Pontes, who witnessed the launch at the spaceport Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh's Nellore district, about 100 kms from Chennai, offered to step-up the space ties with India.

Cooperation in space missions using ISRO's fourth stage of polar satellite launch vehicles (PLSV) orbital platform for studying weather was discussed at the meeting with the Brazilian delegation.

Sivan also had a virtual meeting with the Head of Australian Space Agency, Enrico Palermo, on February 17.

"Both leaders reviewed the status of on-going cooperation activities in earth observation, satellite navigation, space situational awareness and establishment of transportable terminal in Australia to support India's 'Gaganyaan' programme," ISRO states at the time.

This can only be addressed along with international partners, space has dimensions beyond national considerationsand India recognised that earlier.