China to Train and Send First Pakistani Astronaut to Tiangong Space Station

The agreement marks the first time China will train a foreign astronaut, strengthening its space diplomacy and collaboration with Pakistan.

China and Pakistan have signed an agreement to select and train a Pakistani astronaut for a mission to China's Tiangong space station.
The Pakistani astronaut will undergo comprehensive training in China, with plans to join a short-term mission alongside Chinese astronauts in the coming years.
This collaboration represents China's first initiative to train international astronauts and is part of its broader space diplomacy efforts.
Observers note this partnership aligns with China's Belt and Road Initiative and bolsters Pakistan's access to advanced space technology.
The development highlights growing competition in space exploration, as China positions Tiangong as a rival to the aging International Space Station.