China has declared that it is about to include a Pakistani astronaut in one of its upcoming short-term missions to the Tiangong Space Station.
The development, confirmed by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) and reported by Xinhua News Agency, reflects deepening collaboration between the two nations in the field of space exploration and advanced technology.
During a press conference on October 30, Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson for Manned Space Program of China, revealed that a Pakistani astronaut will take part in a short-term mission as a payload expert.
This individual is going to train and work alongside Chinese astronauts, performing various scientific experiments and contributing to ongoing research aboard the space station.
Zhang noted that the inclusion of a Pakistani astronaut was considered to be an integral of the CMSA’s medium-term planning and international cooperation framework, designed to strengthen ties with friendly nations.
Read more: Pakistan to soon send two citizens for year-long astronaut training to China
As per Global Times of China, the astronaut will not only assist with the daily operations of the crew but also conduct experiments on behalf of Pakistan, expanding the country’s presence in the global space community.
This milestone is following a landmark cooperation agreement signed earlier this year between Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and the CMSA. The agreement paved the way for Pakistan’s first-ever manned mission, signaling a significant leap forward in the country’s space ambitions.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while welcoming the partnership in March, considered it as “another wonderful gesture of friendship” from China, emphasizing that it would further deepen bilateral cooperation in science and technology.
He reaffirmed dedication of Pakistan to advance its space capabilities, describing China as the nation’s “most reliable and strategic partner.”
The upcoming mission symbolizes growing footprint of Pakistan in space technology, offering new opportunities for
- Research
- Innovation
- International collaboration
For the people of Pakistan, this marks not only a moment of national pride but also a glimpse into a future where the country’s flag may soon soar among the stars.