BEIJING — In a landmark step for Pakistan’s space ambitions, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal announced in Beijing that Pakistan will send its first-ever astronaut to the Chinese space station in 2026.
The announcement came during a meeting with Shan Zhongde, Chairman of China’s Atomic Energy Authority and Space Agency, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in space exploration and nuclear technology key pillars of Pakistan’s long-term development strategy.
Highlighting the success of ongoing projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Iqbal said that collaboration with China has been crucial in tackling Pakistan’s infrastructure and energy challenges. He cited major milestones such as the K-2, K-3, and C-5 nuclear power plants, calling them “symbols of successful partnership and trust between the two nations.”
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan’s space program has seen renewed focus and energy. The minister said that the government’s “Uraan Pakistan” initiative is designed to advance research in space sciences and technology. In recent months, Pakistan, in partnership with China, successfully launched three satellites, with an ambitious target of executing a lunar mission by 2035 through the national space agency SUPARCO.
Iqbal also discussed Pakistan’s growing capacity for technological collaboration, particularly in quantum computing a field he described as “the foundation of future innovation.” He mentioned the establishment of a Quantum Computing Center aimed at addressing emerging digital and security challenges.
Calling for stronger institutional linkages, the minister urged closer collaboration between SUPARCO, the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), and the China Atomic Energy Commission (CAEC) to promote the peaceful use of advanced technologies.
He further emphasized the need to expand educational exchange programs for young Pakistani scientists and engineers to pursue higher studies in space and nuclear technology at leading Chinese institutions. Such programs, he said, will help Pakistan align its science, technology, and innovation sectors with national development goals.
“Pakistan’s journey into space is not just about science,” Iqbal remarked. “It’s about inspiring a new generation, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that technology serves the cause of peace and progress.”
