Qatar Cooperates with ITU on Enhancing Global Efforts in Addressing Harmful Interference

CRA Qatar signed a MoU with ITU

Represented by the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), the State of Qatar signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to enhance global efforts in addressing harmful interference to space services.

The MoU was signed by President of CRA Eng. Ahmad Abdulla AlMuslemani and Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau at ITU Mario Maniewicz.

In a press release, CRA said that the MoU establishes a framework for cooperation in radio-frequency monitoring and interference resolution to support international telecommunications.

Under the MoU, CRA’s Space Radio Monitoring Centre (SRMC) will provide technical assistance to ITU in performing measurements related to cases of harmful interference affecting geostationary and non-geostationary satellite networks and systems.

This initiative aligns with ITU’s Constitution and Radio Regulations, which mandate the coordination of global efforts to eliminate harmful interference between radio stations of different countries.

The MoU sets out a clear mechanism through which CRA will assist ITU in mitigating harmful interference. CRA will support ITU in resolving interference cases that impact critical space services, particularly those related to distress and safety communications. Upon ITU’s request, CRA will also conduct radio-frequency measurements to verify interference reports and facilitate resolution efforts in coordination with ITU.

"This MoU reflects Qatar’s continuous efforts to ensure an interference-free environment for space communications," said President of CRA Eng. Ahmad Abdulla AlMuslemani.

"Through our Space Radio Monitoring Centre, CRA is well-positioned to assist ITU in detecting and resolving harmful interference, which is crucial for maintaining the reliability of global telecommunications services. This partnership strengthens Qatar’s role in international spectrum management and reinforces our dedication to upholding ITU’s regulatory standards," Eng. AlMuslemani added.

In turn, Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau Mario Maniewicz noted: "These enhanced space monitoring capabilities will continue to ensure the high reliability of satellite communications and other space services in real world." "This supports the interference-free operation of not only current systems but also of future innovative systems that will be launched thanks to the 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference decisions adopted in Dubai in 2023 and effective from this year," Maniewicz added.

He went on to say this agreement is "another example of excellent cooperation between the Member States and ITU in the field of satellite monitoring".

Qatar’s SRMC, inaugurated on October 10, 2024, is a cutting-edge facility spanning 20,000 square meters, equipped with a state-of-the-art control center, a mobile monitoring station, and a drone monitoring unit.

The SRMC is one of only 16 such centers worldwide and the second in the region, reinforcing Qatar’s role as a leader in global space spectrum monitoring.

The facility plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with international radio regulations by monitoring both terrestrial and space transmissions and mitigating harmful interference.

The establishment of the SRMC and Qatar’s active role in global spectrum management align with CRA’s future strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to position the country as a leader in technological innovation, infrastructure development, and regulatory excellence.

One of SRMC’s most significant innovations is Mobile Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) Geolocation tool, making CRA the first regulatory body globally to own this tool.

This advanced tool strengthens Qatar’s ability to detect, analyze, and resolve interference issues efficiently, providing critical support to ITU and international telecommunications stakeholders.

(QNA)