China Applauds Pakistan’s Successful Launch of Advanced Remote Sensing Satellite

 

BEIJING: China has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Pakistan for the successful launch of its cutting-edge remote sensing satellite from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in Sichuan, China, on July 31, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s space exploration journey.

By Ahsan Ali

Pakistan's Satellite Soars in Space! 

The Chinese Foreign Ministry, in a statement released on Thursday, lauded the achievement as a testament to the deepening technological collaboration between the two nations. “We warmly congratulate Pakistan on the successful deployment of its latest remote sensing satellite. This accomplishment reflects the strong partnership and shared commitment to advancing space technology for mutual benefit,” the statement read.

The satellite, launched under the supervision of Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), represents a leap forward in Pakistan’s National Space Vision 2047. Equipped with advanced imaging systems, the satellite is designed to enhance Pakistan’s capabilities in environmental monitoring, disaster management, and urban planning. It is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing climate-related challenges, including real-time tracking of floods, landslides, and glacial shifts, while supporting sustainable agricultural practices and infrastructure development.

According to SUPARCO, this is Pakistan’s second remote sensing satellite, following the launch of PRSS-1 in 2018. With this addition, Pakistan now has five operational satellites in orbit, strengthening its position as an emerging player in space technology. The satellite’s state-of-the-art sensors will provide high-resolution data to aid in resource management and geospatial mapping, particularly for projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, hailed the launch as a “proud moment for Pakistan.” In a post on X, he expressed gratitude to China for its unwavering support and praised SUPARCO’s scientists and engineers for their dedication. “This milestone is a shining example of Pakistan-China friendship soaring to new heights,” Iqbal stated, adding that the satellite’s capabilities will bolster national development and disaster resilience.

The launch further cements the robust collaboration between Pakistan and China in space exploration. Previous joint ventures include the launch of PakSat-1R in 2011 and PakSat-MM1 in 2024, which brought high-speed internet to Pakistan’s remote regions. China’s technical expertise and launch facilities have been instrumental in supporting Pakistan’s space ambitions, with plans underway to send a Pakistani astronaut into space in 2026 and achieve a lunar mission by 2035.

SUPARCO officials emphasized that the satellite’s advanced imaging technology will enable round-the-clock monitoring, providing critical data for early warning systems and informed decision-making. The mission aligns with Pakistan’s broader goal of leveraging space technology for socio-economic progress and sustainable development.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated its commitment to furthering space cooperation with Pakistan, stating, “This successful launch is a step toward a shared vision of harnessing space technology for the betterment of humanity.” The ministry also highlighted the potential for future joint missions to strengthen the “iron brotherhood” between the two nations.

As Pakistan continues to expand its space program, the successful launch of this satellite underscores its growing technological prowess and the enduring partnership with China, paving the way for a brighter, more connected future.