China's Space Station to Become Global Open Experiment Platform, Welcoming Foreign Astronauts

China's space station is evolving into an open research platform for scientists worldwide, with the first international astronauts expected to arrive later this year. The announcement was made by Yang Liwei, China's first person in space and deputy chief designer of the country's manned space program, at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC).

The station will facilitate deeper cooperation in areas such as scientific research, astronaut training, and providing flight opportunities. Yang Liwei revealed that two reserve astronauts from Pakistan are currently undergoing joint training with Chinese astronauts. One Pakistani astronaut is scheduled to perform a short-duration flight as a payload specialist.

Beyond the space station, China is also advancing its lunar ambitions. The nation aims to collaborate with other countries on lunar scientific research and the establishment of a lunar research station. This expansion signifies China's growing role in space exploration.