Pakistani astronaut set to be first foreign visitor to China’s space station
The Chinese Embassy says a Pakistani astronaut will join Chinese crew members in a first for China’s manned space programme, as the countries mark 75 years of diplomatic relations.
A Pakistani astronaut will become the first foreign national to enter China’s space station, the Chinese Embassy has announced. The flight will also mark the first mission bringing Chinese and foreign astronauts together in the history of China’s manned space programme.
The embassy made the announcement on November 11, 2026, as Pakistan and China marked the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. It presented the planned space mission as a further step in the two countries’ longstanding friendship.
According to the embassy, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry said the mission would begin a new chapter in relations between the countries and reinforce their friendship. The embassy described their 75-year relationship as extending into a shared undertaking in space.
The embassy said the mission’s significance would reach beyond the astronauts taking part. It expected the flight to strengthen connections between people in Pakistan and China and encourage young people, while creating opportunities in science and technology.
Scientific research and space technology were identified by the embassy as areas where the cooperation could lead to further joint work. Two Pakistani astronaut candidates also featured in photographs released by the embassy alongside its announcement.
Share this story
Send it to someone who should read it.
