Pakistan astronauts have received national recognition as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended two selected candidates for an upcoming human spaceflight mission. The announcement marks a historic moment for Pakistan’s entry into advanced space exploration.
The prime minister met with astronauts Khurram Dawood and Muhammad Zeeshan Ali in Islamabad, praising their dedication and hard work. He expressed confidence that the Pakistan astronauts would make the nation proud on the global stage.
Senior officials, including Ishaq Dar and representatives from SUPARCO, attended the meeting along with the Chinese ambassador. The gathering highlighted the importance of international collaboration in space research.
This mission is part of a landmark partnership between Pakistan and China, enabling Pakistan astronauts to participate in a human spaceflight program. It will be Pakistan’s first-ever mission aboard a space station.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets Pakistani Astronauts in Islamabad on 23 April, 2026. pic.twitter.com/uUepVJdqbA
— Prime Minister’s Office (@PakPMO) April 23, 2026
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif noted that the collaboration would strengthen bilateral relations and open new avenues of cooperation. He described the initiative as a symbol of a growing partnership that is “reaching for the stars.”
According to SUPARCO, the selected Pakistan astronauts will undergo advanced training in China before the mission. One astronaut is expected to serve as a payload specialist, conducting scientific experiments in microgravity conditions.
Experts believe this development will expand Pakistan’s role in global space research. The mission is expected to contribute to fields like climate science, biotechnology, and food security, marking a significant leap forward for Pakistan astronauts.
