Islamabad, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal held high-level meetings with NASA officials and representatives of leading U.S. aerospace companies in Houston to advance cooperation in space science, education, research, and technology.

The discussions focused on Pakistan’s national space vision, including the proposed establishment of a Space Exploration and Learning Center in Narowal. The facility aims to inspire young people through hands-on learning in astronomy, space science, and innovation, with NASA and U.S. aerospace firms expressing strong interest in collaboration.

Ahsan Iqbal said the government is developing a National Space Education Program to promote scientific curiosity, research, and innovation among Pakistan’s youth. He emphasized that Pakistani engineers, scientists, and IT professionals have the potential to make significant contributions to the global space industry.

The minister invited American aerospace companies to establish development centers in Pakistan and called for greater cooperation in training, research, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing to strengthen the country’s space capabilities.

Highlighting Pakistan’s long-term ambitions, Ahsan Iqbal said the country aims to launch a national mission to the Moon by 2035 and establish a Pakistani lunar presence by 2047. He described the space program as a national strategy to build a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy.

He also stressed that Pakistan–U.S. relations should increasingly focus on science, technology, innovation, climate cooperation, and geo-economics, alongside traditional diplomatic engagement.