Pakistani astronauts in space? China is about to make a major dream come true

Pakistan is preparing to launch its inaugural manned space mission in collaboration with China, as announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday.

The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) has signed a formal agreement with the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) to facilitate the mission.

Under this initiative, two Pakistani astronauts will receive extensive training at China's Astronaut Centre, with one astronaut being designated as a scientific payload specialist to conduct advanced research aboard the China Space Station (CSS).

The final selection of astronauts is anticipated to be completed by 2026. This mission will emphasize innovative scientific research across various fields, including biology, medical sciences, aerospace technology, applied physics, fluid mechanics, space radiation, ecology, material sciences, microgravity studies, and astronomy.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif characterized the agreement as a pivotal advancement in enhancing Pakistan-China collaboration in space exploration. He expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for providing the opportunity and underscored that Pakistan's involvement in the CSS program reflects the strong relationship between the two countries.

He also pointed out that both nations would continue to work together in peaceful space exploration for the benefit of humanity.

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal praised the agreement as a “historic milestone” that would not only support astronaut training but also open avenues for Pakistan's long-term progress in spaceflight and exploration.

Dr. Lin Xinqiang, Director General of CMSA, welcomed Pakistan's participation, reaffirming China's dedication to broadening global partnerships in space research.

Suparco Chairman Mohammad Yousaf Khan described the agreement as a significant turning point in Pakistan's space endeavors and encouraged young professionals and scholars to engage actively in the country’s astronaut program.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted a breakfast reception to greet newly appointed cabinet members.

He emphasized that ministerial selections were made purely based on merit, grounded in competence and qualifications. He also pledged to personally monitor the performance of all cabinet members to ensure effective governance.

In a separate meeting with prominent industrialists and business leaders, the prime minister praised his economic team for their initiatives and sought recommendations for sustainable economic growth. To support this effort, he instructed the formation of a committee made up of business leaders, industrialists, and ministers to propose a roadmap for long-term economic stability within two weeks.

In another significant meeting, PM Shehbaz engaged in discussions with Russia’s First Deputy Minister for Energy, Pavel Sorokin. During these talks, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to strengthening diplomatic, trade, and investment relationships with Russia.

He highlighted the considerable potential for both nations to enhance cooperation, especially in the energy sector, and stressed the importance of expanding partnerships in diverse economic areas.