China has selected two Pakistani astronauts as candidates for its human space program. Both candidates have left for China for training.

China’s state broadcaster confirmed the news in a report on Wednesday. The two Pakistanis, Khurram Dawood and Muhammad Zeeshan, are among those who have left for China.

This development is a major milestone in Pakistan’s space exploration journey, as it joins the ranks of a limited number of countries that are actively participating in the human spaceflight program.

Pakistan is preparing to participate in a mission to the Chinese Space Station for the first time, expected in late 2026, with a Pakistani astronaut serving as a payload expert during the Shenzhou mission.

During the mission to the China Space Station, the Pakistani astronaut will conduct a number of scientific experiments in microgravity, covering key areas including materials science, fluid physics, life/bioscience and biotechnology.

The results of these investigations can play a significant role in combating climate change, promoting food security and industrial innovation. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has appreciated the significant progress made by Suparco towards promoting deep space research.

The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the strong and enduring friendship between Pakistan and China. The selection of Pakistan to participate in the human space mission is another practical manifestation of the close ties between the two countries.