China will train and prepare two Pakistani astronauts for future space missions under a collaborative initiative announced by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). One of the candidates is slated to serve as a payload specialist aboard a forthcoming mission to China’s Tiangong space station, conducting experiments developed by Pakistani researchers.
During a press conference at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Gansu province, CMSA spokesperson Lin Xiqiang emphasized that the selected astronaut will perform both country-specific scientific tasks and standard crew responsibilities while in orbit. “This collaboration reflects the deepening strategic partnership between China and Pakistan in advanced technological domains,” Lin stated.
The selection process, initiated following a bilateral cooperation agreement signed in February, will occur in three phases. Initial screening will take place in Pakistan, followed by subsequent evaluations and final training in China. Lin confirmed that CMSA is also engaging with multiple nations to integrate foreign astronauts into upcoming missions, underscoring China’s commitment to international collaboration in space exploration.
Lin further highlighted the significance of the initiative: “This program not only strengthens Pakistan’s space capabilities but also advances our shared goals in scientific discovery and peaceful utilization of space.”