Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal held important meetings in Houston with NASA officials and representatives of leading US aerospace companies.

During the meetings, discussions were held on advancing Pakistan's space vision, promoting space education and scientific research, and creating world-class opportunities for young Pakistanis in science and technology.

Ahsan Iqbal said the Government of Pakistan is working on a national space education programme aimed at fostering scientific curiosity, research and innovation among the country's youth.

He said the proposed establishment of a Space Exploration Centre in Narowal is part of this broader vision and is intended to introduce young people to the universe, science and space research while inspiring the next generation of scientists, researchers and inventors.

The Minister said Pakistan's young engineers, scientists and IT professionals have the potential to play a prominent role in the global space industry, provided they are given the right training, mentorship and international exposure.

Inviting American aerospace companies to establish development centres in Pakistan and benefit from the country's young talent, he said Pakistan seeks to draw on NASA's experience, training programmes and scientific expertise to strengthen the country's capabilities in space science and technology.

He said the interest shown by NASA and the US aerospace industry in cooperation with Pakistan will open a new chapter in scientific and technological collaboration.