PM Shehbaz Seeks Stronger Ties in Space Technology with China
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated Pakistan’s strong commitment to advancing its space technology collaboration with China. During a meeting with a delegation from Galaxy Space, a prominent Chinese space technology company, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of furthering cooperation in space technology, satellite telecommunications, and satellite-based internet services.
China has rapidly made strides in the space sector, from achieving major milestones like the Tiangong space station and lunar sample-return missions to the development of the BeiDou satellite system. These advancements highlight China's growing capabilities in space technology, which Pakistan now seeks to tap into for its own development. The Prime Minister also stressed the significance of China’s role as Pakistan's "most reliable and strategic partner."
P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor
Galaxy Space, represented by Chairman Xu Ming, expressed its interest in investing in Pakistan’s space technology sector. The company is keen on exploring joint ventures with Pakistani space institutions and private telecom companies to foster mutual growth in space exploration.
This growing partnership is set to expand with an ambitious plan for Pakistan’s first manned mission to China’s space station. This mission, which was discussed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif earlier this year, will see two Pakistani astronauts trained at China's Astronaut Centre. The astronauts will specialize in scientific payloads and will be involved in cutting-edge research in fields such as aerospace, medical sciences, and material sciences.
Further, Pakistan’s National Space Agency (NSA) is preparing for enhanced regulatory frameworks, with the recent implementation of the 'National Space Activities Rules 2024.' These regulations aim to govern space activities within Pakistan and expand satellite services in the country. Notably, international satellite operators like Starlink and Amazon, as well as Chinese firms, are looking to enter the Pakistani market with satellite-based internet services, offering connectivity even in remote areas without traditional infrastructure.