Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, during a meeting in Beijing with Shan Zhongde, Chairman of the China Atomic Energy Authority and China’s Space Agency, confirmed that Pakistan will send its first astronaut to the Chinese space station in 2026. The development comes as part of a broader collaboration in space science and nuclear energy between the two countries, aligned with Pakistan’s national development goals.
The meeting focused on advancing cooperation in emerging technologies with a shared vision to enhance bilateral research, infrastructure, and knowledge exchange. Ahsan Iqbal highlighted that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has helped remove structural barriers in Pakistan’s energy and infrastructure sectors, and has now evolved to include critical scientific domains such as nuclear energy and space exploration. The operational success of nuclear power plants K-2, K-3, and C-5 was recognized as a result of long-standing cooperation in peaceful nuclear development.
The minister noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan’s space program has gained significant momentum, with increased focus on capability development and regional partnerships. As part of the national “Uraan Pakistan” initiative, space science has been prioritized. He pointed out that three satellites were recently launched with China’s assistance, signaling progress in satellite technology and orbital capability.
Pakistan’s national space agency, SUPARCO, has been directed to work on a lunar mission by the year 2035. Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that Pakistan offers a strong talent base in science and engineering, particularly in high-tech domains, at a competitive cost. He proposed that China and Pakistan expand joint efforts in training, technology transfer, and research programs to benefit both countries.
He also announced that Pakistan has established a Quantum Computing Center, aimed at preparing for the next wave of technological innovation. This move supports the national objective to align the science, technology, and engineering sectors with broader development priorities. He urged deeper collaboration between institutions including SUPARCO, CAEC, and the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission to focus on peaceful technological applications.
Ahsan Iqbal stressed the importance of enhancing academic and research opportunities for young Pakistani scientists through Chinese exchange programs, particularly in the areas of space technology, satellite systems, and advanced computing. He reiterated that sustained bilateral engagement would not only strengthen the existing strategic partnership but also build long-term research and development capacity within Pakistan.
The minister’s visit underscored Pakistan’s commitment to integrating advanced technology into its development framework, positioning space and nuclear cooperation with China as central to its future scientific and technological ambitions.
