Pakistan marked a historic leap in space technology

Pakistan marked a historic leap in space technology today with the successful launch of its fourth Earth Observation Satellite, developed in collaboration with its longstanding partner, China.
The launch was witnessed by Pakistanís Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, who attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that this is not just a technological milestoneóit is a moment that lifts our national spirit and elevates our friendship with China higher than the skies.
The Minister stated that today, we are not merely launching a satellite; we are launching a vision that sees Pakistan rising as a leader in space science, powered by innovation, strengthened by partnerships, and driven by an unshakable belief in our destiny to be at the forefront of technology and exploration.
Minister remarked that with a goal of landing a Pakistani spacecraft on the Moon by 2035, we aim to inspire our youth, attract global talent, and position Pakistan as a key player in the international space economy.
Minister said that our journey into space is not new. In 1961, Pakistan established the Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO)óa visionary step that made us one of the first developing nations to embrace the promise of space technology. Over six decades, SUPARCO has laid the groundwork for this day, achieving milestones that few imagined possible.
Minister highlighted that that from Badr-1 in 1990 to PakTES-1A in 2018, from PAKSAT-1R in 2011 to the recent Paksat-MM1 in 2024, we have steadily advanced our capabilities. He added that The launch of this new satellite is the next chapter in that proud journey.
Minister noted that from the mountains of Karakoram to the coasts of Gwadar, Pakistan and China share a friendship described by our leaders as higher than the Himalayas, deeper than the oceans, and sweeter than honey.
He further added that today, as we launch this satellite together, we can proudly say that our iron brotherhood now soars higher than the skies.
Minister reiterated that China has been Pakistanís trusted partner in every domain, defence, economy, infrastructure and through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), we built highways, power plants, and industrial zones that laid the foundation for Pakistanís economic transformation. He added that through space cooperation, we are taking this partnership into a new frontier. This mission is a shining example of how CPECís spirit of collaboration is evolving from roads and energy on Earth to joint exploration and technological excellence in space.
The Minister also said that Earlier this year, the Electro-Optical Satellite (EO-1) was also launched expanding our fleet.The PAKSAT-1R (2011) and Paksat-MM1 (2024) have revolutionized communications, broadcasting, and digital connectivity. Advanced GIS systems now support agriculture, water management, and urban planning with data-driven decision-making, he added.
The Minister said that Our friendship with Chinaís CNSA, collaborations with Roscosmos, and participation in APSCO and ISNET show Pakistanís active engagement in the global space community.
Minister undercored that this satellite wil Enhance Pakistanís imaging and remote sensing capabilities; Strengthen disaster management, food security, and urban planning; Enable data-driven policies for socio-economic uplift and symbolically, take the Pakistan-China iron brotherhood into space.
Minister while appreciating the unwavering support of Chinese partners , particularly BOMETEC, CETC International, and MicroSAT, said that this project is a government-to-government success story, executed with remarkable speed and precisionóa hallmark of our trusted partnership.
The Minister highlighted that the global space economy is projected to exceed $1 trillion by 2040. He added that with Chinaís support and our own growing expertise, Pakistan will expand its satellite constellation for comprehensive earth observation; Invest in space research and STEM education to empower our youth; launch joint space missions with China, culminating in a Pakistani spacecraft on the Moon by 2035 and develop a strong space industry ecosystem that contributes to economic growth and innovation.
He added that to every engineer, scientist, and team member, this milestone is the triumph.
Ahsan Iqbal remarked that Pak China friendship is not limited to borders or oceans; it now extends into outer space.
He underscored that this satellite is the symbol of hope and ambition for the people of Pakistan.
The Minister stressed that great nations donít just dream of the stars, they build the rockets to reach them. With innovation as our compass, collaboration as our engine, and determination as our fuel, Pakistan and China will together touch the Moon, explore Mars, and unlock the limitless opportunities of the universe.