China advocates the peaceful use of outer space, engages in active international space cooperation, and promotes the building of a community with a shared future in the domain of outer space, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the comments at a regular press briefing following a weekend announcement that a Pakistani astronaut will join China's Shenzhou-24 crewed flight mission as a payload specialist and complete a short on-orbit flight before returning to Earth aboard the Shenzhou-23 spacecraft.
Guo noted that the exploration of the vast universe and peaceful use of outer space are humanity's shared pursuit and bear on the welfare of all peoples. He added that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners, and having the Pakistani astronaut on board China's spaceships will mark the first-ever joint flight of Chinese and foreign astronauts in the history of China's manned space program.
This is yet another key outcome of bilateral cooperation as this year marks the 75th anniversary of China-Pakistan diplomatic ties, Guo said. The spokesperson emphasized that space exploration is not a zero-sum game but a platform for global collaboration.
By opening its doors to international partners, China aims to foster scientific innovation that benefits the global community at large. The inclusion of a Pakistani payload specialist signifies the deepening trust between the two nations.
Experts believe this mission will pave the way for future joint research projects, including potential collaborations on lunar exploration and space station experiments. The mission is expected to enhance Pakistan's domestic capabilities in aerospace engineering and satellite technology.
"We stand ready to work with the Pakistani side to carry forward our traditional friendship, deepen cooperation in space and other fields, and bring bilateral relations to new heights," the spokesperson added. The international community has welcomed this move, viewing it as a positive step toward inclusive space governance and the democratization of space science.
As the mission preparations continue, both nations are coordinating closely on technical training and safety protocols. The Shenzhou-24 mission represents a milestone in the long-standing partnership between Beijing and Islamabad, reflecting a shared vision for technological advancement and regional stability.
The mission is also expected to inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers in Pakistan, encouraging them to pursue careers in STEM fields. With the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations serving as a backdrop, this space mission serves as a symbol of the enduring and evolving nature of the China-Pakistan friendship.
Looking ahead, China plans to continue its open-door policy regarding its space station, inviting more nations to participate in scientific research. This approach aligns with China's broader goal of promoting global peace and development through technological progress.
The upcoming flight will be closely monitored by space agencies worldwide, as it sets a precedent for future international cooperation in low-Earth orbit. Both China and Pakistan remain committed to ensuring the success of this historic endeavor.
In conclusion, the collaboration underscores the importance of multilateralism in space exploration. By working together, China and Pakistan are not only strengthening their bilateral ties but also contributing to the collective knowledge and prosperity of all humanity.