Pakistan Secures Spot in China’s Space Training Program
News Desk
Islamabad: Pakistan has become the first foreign country to participate in China’s space station training program, a significant milestone in the country’s space exploration journey, according to the Director of the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), AKM Shafaat Ali.
In an exclusive interview with a private news channel, Shafaat Ali revealed that Pakistan will send two astronauts for training in China, selected purely on merit. The selection criteria include individuals with doctoral qualifications, experienced pilots, and graduates who meet rigorous physical standards.
He stated that under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Pakistan has signed a historic agreement with China to facilitate astronaut training for Pakistani nationals. This move not only advances Pakistan’s space ambitions but also strengthens bilateral cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing.
“China initially reserved astronaut training exclusively for its own citizens, but this decision to include Pakistan reflects the deepening friendship and trust between our two nations,” said the SUPARCO Director.
Three-Stage Selection Process
Shafaat Ali explained that the selection process for Pakistani astronauts will be completed by 2026 and will consist of three comprehensive stages to ensure that only the most qualified candidates are chosen for this prestigious program.
The astronauts will undergo training at China’s space station, where they will conduct pioneering scientific research across multiple disciplines. These include biological and medical sciences, aerospace engineering, applied physics, fluid mechanics, space radiation, ecology, materials science, microgravity studies, and astronomy.
A Leap for Pakistan’s Space Ambitions
Shafaat Ali expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Chinese government for extending this rare and remarkable opportunity. “This collaboration is a giant leap for Pakistan in the field of space exploration. It will open new scientific frontiers for our nation,” he remarked.
The initiative marks a new chapter in Pakistan-China space cooperation and positions Pakistan on the global map of advanced space research and development.
