Federal Minister for Planning and Development, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, announced that SUPARCO, Pakistan’s space agency, has been tasked with launching a lunar mission by 2035. This was revealed during his meeting on Monday with Shan Zhongde, Chairman of China’s Atomic Energy Authority and Space Agency

According to a government statement, the meeting focused on aligning cooperation in nuclear energy and space research with Pakistan’s wider development goals. Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the key role of CPEC in solving Pakistan’s infrastructure and energy challenges.

He praised the continued growth in nuclear collaboration, referencing successful projects like the K-2, K-3, and C-5 nuclear power plants. On climate change, he stressed the need for alternative energy solutions,given global environmental pressures.

Also Read : Oppo Reno 14 price, specs revealed

Under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, Pakistan’s space program is advancing through the "Uraan Pakistan" initiative. Iqbal mentioned recent satellite launches with China and shared plans to send Pakistan’s first astronaut to the Chinese space station in 2026.

He also highlighted Pakistan’s skilled, cost-effective workforce, and welcomed deeper cooperation with China in technology and space science. The government has launched a Quantum Computing Center to address future tech challenges and is working on more exchange programs for young scientists in space studiChairman Shan Zhongde praised Iqbal’s efforts and reaffirmed China’s full support for Pakistan’s peaceful use of space and nuclear technology.