Pakistan launches 2nd satellite for internet connectivity

By Yasin Gungor

ISTANBUL (AA) - Pakistan successfully launched its second communication satellite on Thursday, the prime minister’s office announced.

The satellite, launched from China's Xichang Satellite Launch Centre, is expected to enhance Pakistan's digital landscape by providing the fast internet facilities nationwide, promoting economic activities, and e-governance, according to a statement by the prime minister’s office.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the achievement, highlighting the strong collaboration between Pakistan and China and praised the efforts of the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco).

The geostationary satellite, positioned 36,000 kilometers above Earth, marks a significant advancement in Pakistan's space and communication capabilities, said Sharif.

"This remarkable achievement showcases our nation's scientific and technological prowess," said Sharif.

Attending the event at the launch site, Khalil Hashmi, Pakistan’s ambassador to China, underlined the significance of the program.

Pakistan's maiden lunar satellite iCube has sent its first images captured from the lunar orbit.

The iCube satellite was launched aboard China's Chang'e-6 lunar probe on May 3.