ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and China Great Wail Industry Cooperation (CGWIC) on Thursday signed a contract for the acquisition of communication satellite PakSat Multi-Mission Satelite (PakSat-MMI).
The communication satellite PakSat-MMI arrived at Pakistan’s geostationary orbital location on February 27, said a press release.
Space Electronics member Shakeel Zahid signed the contract on behalf of SUPARCO and CGWIC Chairman Llu Qlang.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Reforms Ahsan Iqbal and Chinese ambassador to Pakistan Yao Jing were present to witness the signing ceremony.
SUPARCO Chairman Qaiser Anees Khurram, along with officials from the planning commission, was also present at the occasion.
The event marks a major milestone as Pakistan has now secured another geostationary orbital slot along with precious frequency resources ensuring a continuous and expanding foothold of Pakistan in space.
China is collaborating with Pakistan on various avenues including space technology and its applications. The successful implementation of Pakistan’s first Communication Satellite (PakSat-1R) program has laid a very strong foundation between the two countries for future collaborations.
Pakistan’s first Remote Sensing Satellite (PRSS-1) program is another important step in this direction, said the press release.
PakSat-MMI satellite is a value addition to the geo-stationary fleet, it added, stating that the project paved the way for new communication services which would significantly assist the socio-economic development of the country.
Those present were briefed that one of the significant aspects of the program was that SUPARCO was collaborating a business venture with CGWIC on cost and revenue sharing basis through commercial contract.
It was said that Pakistan’s PakSat-MMI would prove to be another major asset to initiate and expand various communication services including Direct To Home (DTH).