Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday commended Pakistani astronauts selected for an upcoming space mission. The initiative marks Pakistan’s entry into human spaceflight through collaboration with China. The development is significant for national prestige, scientific progress, and bilateral cooperation.
The prime minister met astronauts Khurram Dawood and Muhammad Zeeshan Ali in Islamabad. Senior officials and Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong attended the meeting. He praised the astronauts’ dedication and expressed confidence in their abilities. He said the mission would open a new chapter in Pakistan’s history.
Read more: Two Pakistani astronauts selected for China mission
Furthermore, the prime minister highlighted the importance of space cooperation between Pakistan and China. He noted that the partnership would strengthen longstanding bilateral relations. The Chinese ambassador welcomed these remarks and called the collaboration a positive step. Both sides emphasized mutual benefits in advancing scientific research.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets Pakistani Astronauts in Islamabad on 23 April, 2026. pic.twitter.com/uUepVJdqbA
— Prime Minister’s Office (@PakPMO) April 23, 2026
According to Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission, the astronauts will undergo advanced training in China. Pakistan plans to send its first astronaut aboard the China Space Station by late 2026. One candidate will serve as a payload specialist during a Shenzhou mission. The astronaut will conduct experiments in microgravity conditions.
Read more: China selects two Pakistani astronauts for space programme
Officials said the experiments will cover material science, life sciences, and biotechnology. These studies aim to support research on climate change, food security, and innovation. The initiative places Pakistan among countries pursuing human spaceflight capabilities. It also marks a shift from satellite development to advanced space exploration.