Officials said Bahrain has been a leading promoter of an Arab space agency.

The agency would conduct research and provide expertise to Arab League members in the field of space exploration and satellites. Officials said the proposed agency would invite Arab scientists to conduct research and cooperate with industry.

"We have to convince the Arab League to discuss this matter," Arab Union on Astronomy and Space Science vice president Shawqi Al Dallal said. "Our role is to convince people to meet and discuss this matter."

One Arab League member, Syria, has already sought to focus on space projects. On Aug. 25, the Arab Union convened a space science conference in Latakia, Syria.

Al Dallal, also director of the Bahrain Astronomical Society, said the proposed agency would focus on telecommunications and satellites. He said the agency would also ensure Arab participation in space missions.

"It's basically an opportunity for more active participation in the space science research and space missions," Al Hallal said.