ISLAMABAD:In a recent forum, Dr. Victor Gao, a prominent Chinese strategicexpert, highlighted the robust Pakistan-China relations, emphasizing theirexpanding cooperation in space exploration. He described the bilateralfriendship as extending “as high as space,” underscoring the ongoing jointefforts to train Pakistani astronauts. This collaboration marks asignificant milestone in the longstanding alliance between the two nations,built on mutual trust and shared strategic interests. Dr. Gao’s remarkscome amid growing international attention to Asia’s space ambitions, whereChina plays a leading role.
Pakistan and China have a history of successful space ventures, includingthe launch of Pakistan’s first communication satellite, PakSat-1R, withChinese assistance in 2011. More recently, the two countries have advancedtheir partnership through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, whichincludes technology transfers and joint research. The latest developmentinvolves an agreement signed in February 2025, allowing Pakistan to send anastronaut to China’s Tiangong space station. This initiative positionsPakistan as the first nation to have a foreign astronaut aboard thestation, symbolizing deepened scientific ties.
According to official announcements from the China Manned Space Agency, twoPakistani astronauts will undergo rigorous training alongside their Chinesecounterparts. One will be selected as a mission specialist for a short-termassignment on Tiangong. While exact timelines remain unspecified, expertsanticipate the mission could occur as early as 2026, pending successfulcompletion of training phases. This opportunity not only enhancesPakistan’s space capabilities but also fosters knowledge exchange in areaslike satellite technology and remote sensing.
Dr. Gao, in his address, reiterated China’s commitment to supportingPakistan’s development goals, stating that such collaborations strengthenregional stability. He dismissed concerns over external influences on thepartnership, affirming that China views Pakistan as a steadfast ally. Theinitiative is expected to inspire Pakistan’s youth towards STEM fields,potentially leading to indigenous space programs. As both nations continueto invest in space infrastructure, this cooperation could pave the way forjoint lunar or Mars explorations in the future.
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The astronaut program aligns with China’s broader strategy tointernationalize its space station, inviting partners from Belt and RoadInitiative countries. For Pakistan, it represents a leap forward intechnological sovereignty, reducing reliance on Western space agencies. Dr.Gao’s insights reinforce the narrative of an “ironclad” friendship,resilient against geopolitical shifts. As training progresses, anticipationbuilds for the historic moment when a Pakistani astronaut ventures intoorbit aboard Tiangong.Source: www.dawn.com/news/1952137″>https://www.dawn.com/news/1952137
