July 31, 2025(Kamran Raja): In a historic stride towards technological advancement and international cooperation, Pakistan successfully launched its fourth Earth Observation Satellite today, developed in close collaboration with its all-weather ally, the People’s Republic of China. The momentous launch was witnessed by the Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, who attended the ceremony as Chief Guest. “This is not just a technological milestone,” stated Minister Ahsan Iqbal during the event. “It is a moment that lifts our national spirit and elevates our friendship with China higher than the skies.” The Minister emphasized that this satellite marks not just a launch but the beginning of a bold vision—positioning Pakistan as a future leader in space science. “Powered by innovation, strengthened by partnerships, and driven by an unshakable belief in our destiny, today we reaffirm our commitment to technological excellence,” he said.
Looking ahead, the Minister reiterated Pakistan’s ambitious goal: landing a Pakistani spacecraft on the Moon by 2035. “This mission is not only about exploration but also about inspiration—mobilizing our youth, attracting global talent, and building a future-ready Pakistan.” Highlighting Pakistan’s proud space legacy, he recalled the formation of SUPARCO (Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission) in 1961, making Pakistan one of the first developing nations to pursue space technology. From Badr-1 (1990) to PakTES-1A (2018), PAKSAT-1R (2011) to Paksat-MM1 (2024), the Minister described the current launch as the next chapter in a journey of determination and progress.
“The Pak-China friendship is often described as higher than the Himalayas, deeper than the oceans, and sweeter than honey,” he remarked. “Today, it has reached the stars.” Minister Iqbal underscored China’s role as a trusted partner across all domains—defence, economy, infrastructure, and now space. Through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the two countries built roads, power plants, and industrial zones. “Now, through space cooperation, we are expanding CPEC’s spirit of collaboration from Earth to the cosmos.” The Minister also highlighted earlier milestones, including the launch of the Electro-Optical Satellite (EO-1) earlier this year and advancements in GIS systems that now support agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management. “This satellite will enhance Pakistan’s remote sensing capabilities, strengthen disaster resilience, improve food security, and support data-driven socio-economic development,” he stated. Pakistan’s growing engagement in the global space community was also highlighted through partnerships with China National Space Administration (CNSA), Roscosmos, and participation in APSCO and ISNET. Appreciating the role of Chinese partners BOMETEC, CETC International, and MicroSAT, the Minister described the mission as “a government-to-government success story, executed with remarkable speed and precision.”
He also noted that the global space economy is projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2040, and Pakistan intends to be an active participant by:
Expanding its satellite constellation,
Investing in space research and STEM education,
Launching joint missions with China,
And building a robust space industry ecosystem to drive innovation and economic growth.
“To every scientist, engineer, and member of this mission—this achievement is your triumph,” he said.
Minister Ahsan Iqbal concluded with a powerful message:
“Great nations don’t 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 touch the Moon, explore Mars, and unlock the limitless opportunities of the universe.”