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PM Sharif Congratulates Pakistani Astronauts Selected for China's Space Mission, Hopes it Ushers in New Era of Research
🇵🇰 Pakistan /Technology

PM Sharif Congratulates Pakistani Astronauts Selected for China's Space Mission, Hopes it Ushers in New Era of Research

From Dawn · (11h ago) English Positive tone

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated two Pakistani astronauts selected for China's manned space program.
  • He expressed hope that the mission will usher in a new era of space research for Pakistan and strengthen Pakistan-China relations.
  • The astronauts will undergo training in China, with one participating in a space flight mission as a payload specialist, marking a first for a foreign astronaut on China's space station.

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the selection of two Pakistani astronauts for China's prestigious manned space program, viewing it as a pivotal moment that promises to inaugurate a new chapter in Pakistan's space exploration endeavors. The Prime Minister's optimism underscores the strategic importance of this collaboration, which is expected to significantly bolster Pakistan's capabilities in space research and technology.

usher in a new era of space research in Pakistan

— Prime Minister Shehbaz SharifExpressing his hopes for the significance of the space mission.

During a meeting at the Prime Minister's House, attended by Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, the Prime Minister emphasized that this joint venture is a source of immense national pride. He commended the astronauts, Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud, for their dedication and hard work, highlighting their selection as a testament to their capabilities. The Prime Minister articulated his belief that this mission will not only deepen the already strong bonds of friendship between Pakistan and China but also open new avenues for scientific and technological cooperation.

matter of pride for the entire nation

— Prime Minister Shehbaz SharifDescribing the selection of the astronauts for the space mission.

This historic opportunity, facilitated by a cooperation agreement signed between Pakistan's Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and the China Manned Space Agency, positions Pakistan to gain invaluable experience. The selection of a Pakistani astronaut as a payload specialist for a mission to the Tiangong space station is particularly significant. It reflects China's trust and willingness to share its advanced space technology, a move that is viewed with great anticipation within Pakistan. This collaboration stands in contrast to the isolation faced by China's space program from international platforms like the ISS, showcasing Beijing's strategy of building robust partnerships with nations like Pakistan to advance its ambitious space agenda.

add new dimensions to the brotherly relationship between Pakistan and China

— Prime Minister Shehbaz SharifHighlighting the diplomatic implications of the space mission.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Dawn in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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