Pakistan's Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal declared the China-Pakistan partnership has reached celestial heights following the successful launch of a jointly developed satellite, marking a new chapter in the nations' decades-long alliance. The remarks came after Iqbal witnessed the Pakistan Remote-Sensing Satellite (PRSS-1) lift off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province on July 31.
"Our cooperation now transcends terrestrial boundaries," Iqbal told CGTN Digital, emphasizing how space technology collaboration elevates the relationship beyond traditional infrastructure projects. The satellite launch coincides with fresh momentum in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with both nations recently agreeing to expand industrial and digital partnerships.
Analysts note the PRSS-1 project exemplifies South-South technological cooperation, providing Pakistan with earth observation capabilities for agriculture and disaster management while showcasing China's growing role as a space partner for developing economies. The development follows Beijing's commitment to deepen innovation-driven collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative framework.
Reference(s):
Pakistani minister: China, Pakistan friendship now 'higher than skies'
cgtn.com