By Muhammad Zeeshan TWA In a landmark development for Pakistan’s space ambitions, Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), the national space agency of Pakistan, signed a cooperation agreement with China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), People's Republic of China, setting the stage for *Pakistan's First Astronaut* to set off on a mission to Tiangong – the Chinese Space Station (CSS). Under this agreement, two Pakistani astronauts will undergo training at the Astronaut Center of China. One selected astronaut shall be trained as a scientific payload specialist, preparing for specialized research aboard the China Space Station (CSS). The astronaut selection process will be completed by 2026, with the aim of flying in an upcoming mission as per CSS planning. The first national astronaut’s mission at CSS will involve conducting cutting-edge scientific experiments in various fields, including biological and medical sciences, aerospace, applied physics, fluid mechanics, space radiation, ecology, material sciences, microgravity studies, and astronomy. The China Space Station is equipped with state-of-the-art experimental racks and external adaptors, facilitating multi-domain research in these fields. The findings from these experiments are expected to drive significant advancements in medical research, environmental monitoring, and space technology, with potential applications benefiting life on Earth.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mohammad Shehbaz Sharif,hailed the occasion as a defining moment in the nation’s space journey, emphasizing that it will be remembered as a cornerstone of Pakistan's aspiration in human spaceflight. He highlighted the country’s steady progress in space science and technology, noting past achievements in satellite launches, indigenous expertise development, and contributions to global scientific advancement. Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, termed the agreement a historic milestone, underscoring its role in accelerating technological innovation, capacity building, and research. He stated that the collaboration with China extends beyond astronaut training, laying the groundwork for Pakistan’s long-term growth in human spaceflight and exploration.

The Director General of China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), People's Republic of China, Dr. Lin Xiqiang, expressed enthusiasm for this partnership, reaffirming China’s dedication to strengthening international cooperation in space exploration. He highlighted that Pakistan's participation in the China Space Station program reflects the deep-rooted ties between the two countries and will contribute to mutual knowledge-sharing and the broader vision of peaceful space exploration for the benefit of humanity. Chairman SUPARCO, Mohammad Yousuf Khan,regarded the agreement as a landmark in Pakistan's space journey, emphasizing perseverance, adaptability, and technological progress. He invited youth, professionals, and academia to actively participate in Pakistan’s astronaut program, encouraging them to contribute to the nation’s space exploration efforts through research, innovation, and skill development. This mission is set to enhance Pakistan's standing in the global space community, driving advancements in scientific research and technological innovation. The research conducted aboard the CSS will provide valuable insights into space sciences, contribute to the development of innovative solutions, and reinforce Pakistan's role in international space exploration efforts.