During an official visit to China, Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal announced that Pakistan is targeting 2026 to send its inaugural astronaut to the Chinese space station. This initiative marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s space program and reflects the growing technological cooperation between the two countries. The visit focused on enhancing collaboration in space research and nuclear energy, with high-level meetings held with key Chinese officials. Ahsan Iqbal met with the heads of the China Atomic Energy Authority and the China Space Agency to discuss joint efforts aligned with Pakistan’s developmental goals. Iqbal highlighted that the partnership with China is entering a new phase—moving from strategic alliance to a comprehensive technological collaboration.

 

 

He stressed that addressing climate change has made nuclear energy an essential component of Pakistan’s energy strategy. The progress made through projects like the CANP-2, CANP-3, and Chashma-5 nuclear power plants demonstrates the strength of this cooperation. He further explained that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has helped remove longstanding hurdles in Pakistan’s energy and infrastructure sectors, laying the groundwork for sustainable development. Building on the Prime Minister’s vision, Iqbal stated that Pakistan’s space ambitions have received a major boost. With Chinese assistance, Pakistan has successfully launched three satellites and now aims for two ambitious goals:

 

Sending Pakistan’s first astronaut to China’s space station by 2026

Launching a lunar mission by 2035, in line with plans outlined by Pakistan’s Space Research Agency Additionally, Pakistan has established a Quantum Computing Center to prepare for future technological challenges. Chinese officials, including Chairman Shan Zhongde, praised Pakistan’s progress and reaffirmed China’s full support in advancing nuclear and space technologies. Shan Zhongde emphasized that the strong geopolitical foundation of the China-Pakistan relationship has evolved into a vibrant economic and technological partnership, promising further growth and cooperation.