Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, has announced that Pakistan’s space agency, Suparco, has been tasked with launching a lunar mission by 2035. This marks a significant milestone in the country’s ambitions for space exploration, with a goal to land a rover on the moon with Chinese cooperation.
Iqbal made the remarks during a high-level meeting in Beijing with Shan Zhongde, the Chairman of China’s Atomic Energy Authority and Space Agency. The discussion focused on expanding collaboration in space and nuclear energy to support Pakistan’s national development goals. He added that under the “Uraan Pakistan” initiative, space sciences have gained new momentum. The federal minister also noted that Pakistan recently launched three satellites in collaboration with China and plans to send its first astronaut to the Chinese space station by 2026.
Expanding Technological and Strategic Cooperation with China
During the meeting, Iqbal emphasized the urgent need to adopt alternative energy sources to address vulnerabilities in food, water, and health security, especially given the growing impact of climate change. He called for deeper collaboration with China in peaceful nuclear energy and advanced technology, including quantum computing. Iqbal highlighted the K-2, K-3, and C-5 nuclear power plants as prime examples of this strategic cooperation.
He further stated that Pakistan has established a Quantum Computing Center and is actively aligning its science and technology sectors with its economic development priorities. Iqbal urged greater educational opportunities for young Pakistani scientists through Chinese exchange programs. The minister also acknowledged the vital role the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has played in improving Pakistan’s infrastructure and energy sectors.
Chairman Shan Zhongde praised Pakistan’s progress under CPEC and affirmed China’s full support for advancing Pakistan’s space research and peaceful nuclear capabilities. He reiterated a commitment to further strengthening the economic and strategic ties between the two countries.
