Pakistan, China Strengthen Nuclear and Space Ties

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Pakistan and China are deepening their collaboration in nuclear energy and space research, aligning these efforts with national development goals to boost energy security and technological advancement.

On August 4, 2025, Pakistan and China held high-level talks in Beijing to advance their partnership in nuclear energy and space research, focusing on aligning these sectors with Pakistan’s broader development objectives. The discussions, led by Pakistan’s Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, and Shan Zhongde, Chairman of the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) and China National Space Administration (CNSA), underscored the strategic importance of their bilateral ties. Iqbal highlighted the transformative impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), noting its role in addressing Pakistan’s infrastructure and energy deficits. He cited the K-2, K-3, and Chashma-5 (C-5) nuclear power plants as key examples of successful cooperation, generating over 3,500 megawatts of electricity daily.

Iqbal emphasized the urgent need for alternative energy sources to combat climate change, which threatens food security, water resources, and agriculture. He advocated for stronger research partnerships between the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), and their Chinese counterparts to promote peaceful technology use. He also revealed plans to send Pakistan’s first astronaut to China’s Tiangong space station by 2026 and to land a Pakistani rover on the moon by 2035, supported by China’s expertise. These ambitions align with Pakistan’s “Uraan Pakistan” vision to advance scientific and technological capabilities.

Shan Zhongde praised the progress of CPEC and reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in space research and peaceful nuclear energy development. He highlighted the growing geo-strategic and economic ties between the two nations, noting that China views Pakistan as a key partner in the Global South. Iqbal also pointed to Pakistan’s skilled workforce and cost-effective resources, urging Chinese investment in export-oriented sectors like solar energy and electric vehicles. He mentioned the establishment of a Quantum Computing Centre to tackle emerging technological challenges.

The talks reflect Pakistan’s push for energy security and technological self-reliance through its enduring alliance with China. By leveraging CPEC and expanding nuclear and space cooperation, both nations aim to address pressing economic and environmental challenges while strengthening their strategic partnership.