Both China and Russia have been expanding their collaboration over the recent period with nations in the Global South regarding space exploration, human spaceflight, satellite launches and other areas of space research.
On April 23, the Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that two Pakistani astronauts had been selected to participate with China’s manned space program, such as working on the Chinese space station, reported Dawn News. Both are highly experienced pilots currently serving with the Pakistani Air Force.
The Prime Minister’s Office noted that the two—Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud—met the PM at his residence, and the meeting also included Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong. Sharif congratulated the two candidates, and emphasized, “This remarkable achievement reflects the immense talent of our people and the growing strength of Pakistan–China cooperation in space technology. I wished them great success as they embark on this inspiring journey, carrying the hopes and aspirations of the entire nation.”
This collaboration is in line with China’s intention to open its space station in partnership with countries around the globe, and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) has emphasized its commitment to the peaceful development of space for the benefit of all mankind.
Russia and South Africa announced on April 25 that the two nations’ space agencies, Roscosmos and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), would participate in a joint cosmonaut training program with Russia as early as 2027, reported Izvestia.
