Beijing: China has reaffirmed its readiness to extend full cooperation to Pakistan in the field of space research. This commitment was highlighted during a meeting between Shan Zhongde, Chairman of the China Atomic Energy Authority and China's Space Agency, and Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistan's Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, in Beijing.

According to Radio Pakistan, the discussions centered on aligning nuclear energy and space research cooperation with broader national development goals. During the meeting, Ahsan Iqbal noted the growing collaboration between Pakistan and China in the nuclear energy sector, citing the K-2, K-3, and C-5 nuclear power plants as evidence of this partnership.

Iqbal further mentioned the recent momentum gained by Pakistan's space program, marked by the successful launch of three satellites with China's assistance. He also revealed plans for Pakistan to send its first astronaut to the Chinese space station next year. Furthermore, SUPARCO, Pakistan's space agency, has been assigned the goal of launching a lunar mission by 2035.

Emphasizing the importance of education, Iqbal stressed the need to expand opportunities for young Pakistani scientists to pursue higher education in space technology through Chinese exchange programs. Shan Zhongde reiterated the strong geo-strategic relations between Pakistan and China, which have now developed into deep-rooted economic cooperation.