By Waseem Baloch

ISLAMABAD, Dec 31 (Gwadar Pro) – Chinese aerospace company PIESAT took part in an artificial intelligence (AI) and drone expo in Islamabad, as Pakistan looks to expand cooperation with China on satellite communications and earth-observation technology, the company and event organisers said.

The firm attended the AI Rise Expo 2025 in the Pakistani capital from Dec. 26 to 28, showcasing satellite and drone-related technologies, including remote-sensing applications, PIESAT said in a recent announcement.

The company said it held talks with Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and briefed officials on the progress of the satellite manufacturing base in Pakistan and a satellite internet constellation, building on a 2.9 billion yuan ($400 million) satellite network agreement announced in September.

The firm also introduced its “Nuwa” radar satellite constellation to Pakistani government representatives at its stand, who expressed interest in the constellation’s on‑orbit data processing and target recognition capabilities, the company said.

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal inaugurated the event and said Pakistan’s “Uraan Pakistan” vision aims to shift the economy towards technology-driven growth, with artificial intelligence and advanced technologies used to modernise industry and improve competitiveness.

The expo, organised by the World UAV Federation’s Pakistan chapter, focused on AI, drones and counter-drone systems, robotics and space technologies and drew participants from more than 20 countries.

Under the September deal, the Chinese company will help Pakistan build an integrated satellite system for real-time communications and remote sensing, including constructing a satellite manufacturing facility in Pakistan.

Pakistani officials have highlighted the need for remote-sensing satellites to support government services such as disaster management, agriculture monitoring and urban planning, and urged faster implementation of joint projects.

This article originally appeared on Gwadar Pro.