China to Include First Pakistani Astronaut in Short-Term Space Mission

China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced it will select and train two astronauts from Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) in Pakistan for short-term missions aboard the Tiangong Space Station. 

The chosen Pakistani astronaut will serve as a “payload specialist” and conduct scientific experiments during a planned flight alongside Chinese crew. Training will replicate Chinese astronaut selection, with preliminary stages in Pakistan and secondary rounds in China. 

This move builds on the February 2025 cooperation agreement between China and Pakistan, marking a milestone in Beijing’s push to open its space station to international partners. 

Officials emphasized the mission’s focus on peaceful cooperation, scientific advancement and mutual development. The project may strengthen the China-Pakistan space alliance amid broader global competition in orbit.