ISLAMABAD: Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has announced Pakistan’s ambitious goal to send its first national mission to the Moon by 2035 and establish a sustained lunar presence by 2047, as he pushed for deeper cooperation with NASA during a visit to Houston.
The minister held meetings with American aerospace companies and officials from the US space agency, according to a statement issued by the Planning Ministry. The development signals Pakistan’s intent to broaden its space cooperation beyond its existing partnership with China, using science and technology as pillars for a knowledge-based economy.
“Pakistan aims to send a national mission to the Moon by 2035 and establish a sustained lunar presence by 2047,” Iqbal said. “This vision is not limited to space missions alone, but forms part of a wider national strategy to lay the foundations of a knowledge-based, research-driven and innovation-led economy.” He emphasized that Pakistan’s space program would be advanced through global partnerships, modern research, and the strength of the country’s young workforce.
The minister invited American aerospace companies to establish development centers in Pakistan, saying the government wanted to harness the country’s young talent while drawing on NASA’s experience, training programs, and scientific expertise to strengthen local capabilities in space science and technology.
Iqbal revealed that Pakistan is developing a national space education program to promote scientific curiosity, research, and innovation among young people. He also mentioned a proposed Space Exploration Center in Narowal, intended to inspire future scientists, researchers, and inventors.
Earlier this year, two Pakistani astronaut candidates completed advanced assessments in China for a human spaceflight mission, with one expected to travel to a Chinese space station later this year. Pakistan has also collaborated with China on satellite launches and lunar exploration projects as it continues to build its space capabilities.
