Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasised the crucial role of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in strengthening Pakistan’s economy, stating that cooperation in the space sector reflects the deep and enduring friendship between Pakistan and China.

Speaking at the signing ceremony of a space research cooperation agreement between the two countries in Islamabad, the prime minister highlighted China’s support in advancing Pakistan’s space technology.

He reiterated that the agreement symbolizes the strong bilateral ties between the nations, with Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) set to collaborate with Chinese authorities in space exploration.

Expanding opportunities

PM Shehbaz further said that enhancing cooperation in the space sector will create new opportunities for Pakistani youth.

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He stressed the need to explore innovative avenues for their development, calling the agreement a milestone in Pakistan’s aspirations for human spaceflight.

Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar announced that Pakistan’s national flag will one day reach space, with China providing training to young Pakistani astronauts.

Minister Ahsan Iqbal added that the agreement is a significant step toward technological advancement.

Meanwhile, the director-general of China’s space agency reaffirmed China’s commitment to fostering international collaboration in space research.

A historic agreement

According to SUPARCO, Pakistan has signed a historic agreement with China’s Manned Space Agency, paving the way for the training and eventual mission of the country’s first astronaut to the Chinese space station.

Under the agreement, two Pakistani astronauts will undergo training at China’s Astronaut Centre.

One of them will be selected to join a mission to the Chinese space station as a scientific payload specialist.

The selection process for Pakistan’s first astronaut is expected to be completed by 2026, with the mission focusing on advanced scientific experiments.