China helps Pakistan successfully acquire another Communication Satellite

By APD writer Muhammad Sohail

**ISLAMABAD, March 23 (APD) - **Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC)

signed a contract for the acquisition of communication satellite PakSat Multi-Mission Satelite (PakSat-MM1) here on Thursday, an official statement said.

This communication satellite PakSat- MMI has arrived at Pakistan's geostationary orbital location of 38.2 East on Feb 27.

Member Space Electronics Shakeel Zahid on behalf of SUPARCO and Chairman of the CGWIC Liu Qiang signed the contract.

Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Reforms Professor Ahsan Iqbal

and Ambassador of People's Republic of China in Pakistan Yao Jing, were present to witness the signing ceremony.

This 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.

PakSat-MM1 satellite is a value addition in our geostationary fleet. This project paved the way for new communication services which will significantly assist in the socio-economic development of the country.

Another significant aspect of this program is that SUPARCO is collaborating a business venture with CGWIC on cost and revenue sharing basis through commercial contract.

Pakistan Multi-Mission Satellite will prove to be another major asset to initiate and expand various communication services including Direct To Home (DTH) in the country.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)