In a major leap for science and technology, Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has announced that Pakistan aims to send its first astronaut to China’s space station by 2026.
The announcement came during his official visit to China, where discussions centred around enhancing Pakistan-China space collaboration and deepening nuclear energy cooperation.
Ahsan Iqbal held high-level meetings with senior officials from the China Space Agency and the China Atomic Energy Authority. These talks, he said, mark a new chapter in the strategic alliance between the two nations—one that now extends into the realm of advanced technology and space exploration.
“Pakistan’s partnership with China is no longer just strategic—it has evolved into deep technological cooperation,” Iqbal stated, emphasising how space and nuclear progress align with Pakistan’s long-term development vision.
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Pakistan's space ambitions received a significant boost under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision. Iqbal revealed that Pakistan, with China’s support, has already launched three satellites. Now, two major goals lie ahead: sending the first Pakistani astronaut to space by 2026 and launching a moon mission by 2035 through the country's space agency.
To prepare for the future, Pakistan has also established a Quantum Computing Centre — a move aimed at catching up with global advancements in digital science and innovation.
Meanwhile, Pakistan China space collaboration continues to open new frontiers, not just in orbit but also on Earth. Iqbal highlighted the vital role of nuclear energy in tackling climate change, referencing successful joint projects like the CANP-2, CANP-3, and Chashma-5 nuclear plants.
Chairman Shan Zhongde of the China Space Agency praised Ahsan Iqbal’s efforts in advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and assured full support for Pakistan’s ventures in both space and nuclear technology.
He noted that what began as a strategic partnership has matured into a robust economic and technological alliance, one that benefits both countries.
