Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the importance of space technology for Pakistan, highlighting the country’s interest in strengthening cooperation with China in the fields of satellites, telecommunications, and satellite internet.
During a meeting with a delegation from Chinese space technology company Galaxy Space, led by Chairman Xu Ming, the prime minister discussed potential collaborations in Pakistan’s space sector. The Chinese delegation expressed interest in investing in Pakistan’s space industry and partnering on joint projects with Pakistani space institutions and private telecom companies.
The delegation appreciated the warm hospitality extended by the Pakistani government, noting that their meetings with officials from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, as well as Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco), were highly productive.
Also present at the meeting were Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Advisor to the PM Dr Tauqir Shah, and other government officials.
Pakistan has been making significant strides in space technology. Earlier this year, the country successfully launched its first indigenous Electro Optical Satellite (EOS) from China’s Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre (JSLC). This satellite is designed to provide timely updates on natural disasters, such as floods, landslides, and earthquakes.
Last year, Suparco launched its first satellite mission to the moon, iCube Qamar, aboard China’s Chang’E6 from Hainan, marking a significant milestone for Pakistan’s space ambitions.
Additionally, a satellite internet service, Starlink, is set to launch in Pakistan by the end of this year. Chinese company Shanghai SpaceCom has also applied for a satellite internet license in the country.
