SLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Pakistan, in partnership with China, will send its first astronaut to the China Space Station.

Speaking at a ceremony following the signing of a cooperation agreement between Pakistan’s Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and the China Manned Space Agency, he praised China’s support in strengthening bilateral space collaboration. He highlighted that under President Xi Jinping’s leadership, space programs and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects have significantly contributed to Pakistan’s development.

Under the agreement, two Pakistani astronauts will undergo training at the Astronaut Center of China. One will be designated as a scientific payload specialist, preparing for research aboard the space station. The selection process is expected to conclude by 2026.

Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal termed the agreement a historic step in advancing technology, research, and innovation in Pakistan’s space sector. Dr. Lin Xinqiang, Director General of the China Manned Space Agency, reaffirmed China’s commitment to international space cooperation.

Chairman SUPARCO Mohammad Yousaf Khan called the agreement a milestone in Pakistan’s space journey, encouraging youth and researchers to contribute to the nation’s space ambitions.