A new chapter in Pakistan-China friendship has begun as Beijing officially announced that a Pakistani astronaut will participate in China’s upcoming space mission.
The decision is being hailed as a historic milestone in scientific and technological cooperation between the two countries, marking a significant advancement in Pakistan’s space history.
According to Chinese state media, the Pakistani astronaut will serve as a payload expert on a short-term space mission. Under the arrangement, the astronaut will train alongside Chinese counterparts and contribute to the medium-term phase of China’s space station program.
The initiative is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s technical capabilities while deepening bilateral collaboration in space science. Chinese reports noted that this partnership aligns with the country’s medium-term space station program, which includes training and research opportunities for experts from friendly nations.
This marks the first time a Pakistani astronaut will actively participate in another country’s official space mission — a major achievement for Pakistan’s national space agency, SUPARCO. The development is also expected to boost SUPARCO’s international reputation and scientific cooperation.
Experts observe that while Pakistan and China have cooperated in space technology for years, the direct involvement of a Pakistani astronaut elevates their partnership to a new level.
A statement issued in Beijing added that the joint training and scientific collaboration will open new avenues in space technology, satellite data exchange, and space security. Chinese experts said Pakistan’s inclusion in the mission reflects China’s commitment to sharing scientific progress with its friendly nations.
