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.