In a landmark development for Pakistan’s space ambitions, the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced that two Pakistani astronauts will train alongside Chinese astronauts, and one of them will participate in a short-duration spaceflight mission as a payload specialist.
The announcement was made by Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson for the CMSA, during a press conference on Thursday. The move follows a bilateral cooperation agreement between China and Pakistan signed in February 2025, aimed at strengthening collaboration in human spaceflight and scientific research.
Astronaut selection process officially underway
According to Zhang, the selection process for Pakistani astronauts has officially begun. Similar to the system used for Chinese astronauts, the process consists of three stages — preliminary selection, second-round evaluation, and final selection.
The preliminary selection phase is currently being conducted in Pakistan, while the second round and final selections will take place in China. Preparations for the next stages are already underway, including developing training programs, preparing teaching materials and equipment, and arranging logistical support for the astronauts during their training period.
Training alongside Chinese astronauts
Once the final selection is complete, two Pakistani astronauts will undergo joint training with Chinese counterparts under the supervision of the CMSA. One of them will then be chosen to participate in a short-duration spaceflight mission aboard a Chinese spacecraft, serving as a payload specialist.
During the mission, the selected astronaut will conduct scientific experiments for Pakistan and also perform routine crew duties, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space exploration journey.
Zhang Jingbo emphasized that this collaboration underscores the deepening strategic partnership between China and Pakistan in the field of space science and technology. He noted that China’s manned space program has always adhered to the principles of peaceful utilization, equality, mutual benefit, and shared development.
“China actively recruits foreign astronauts to participate in its space station missions,” Zhang said, adding that the initiative aims to promote international cooperation and exchange, advance global space technology, and benefit all humankind.
China’s open invitation to world
Reiterating China’s commitment to openness, Zhang said, “We welcome our global counterparts to join the flight missions of the Chinese space station.”
This invitation reflects Beijing’s growing role as a leader in international space collaboration, expanding opportunities for developing countries like Pakistan to take part in human spaceflight and orbital research.
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