Islamabad, February 28, 2025: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic progress, highlighting its growing impact on technological and space sector collaboration between the two nations.
Speaking at a signing ceremony for a space research cooperation agreement between Pakistan and China in Islamabad, the prime minister lauded China’s support in advancing Pakistan’s space technology.
The agreement, signed between Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and China’s Manned Space Agency, marks a historic milestone in bilateral relations. Under the pact two Pakistani astronauts will undergo training at China’s Astronaut Centre. One astronaut will be selected as a scientific payload specialist for a mission to the Chinese space station. Selection process for Pakistan’s first astronaut is expected to conclude by 2026.
PM Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that expanding space cooperation will open new opportunities for Pakistani youth, fostering innovation and development.
Speaking on this occasion, Federal Minister for Information, Atta Tarar, announced that Pakistan’s national flag will one day reach space, with China providing astronaut training.
Minister for Planning, Ahsan Iqbal, hailed the agreement as a major step toward Pakistan’s technological advancement.
China’s space agency director-general reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to fostering international collaboration in space research.
The historic partnership signifies a new era in Pakistan’s space exploration ambitions, reflecting deep-rooted Pak-China friendship and paving the way for future scientific breakthroughs.
