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First Pakistani astronaut will go into space in 2022: Information Minister

Hardly an achievement when pretty much all the work will be done by the Chinese. Still, it's something.
Look at this from a practical perspective. It is low cost method for conducting some micro gravity based research, inspires a generation to pursue a career the STEM fields, and fosters long term state to state cooperation (diplomacy tool).

The Apollo program for the Americans served as a major marketing tool for STEM subjects, even if they were not directly involved in the space program these people will go on to contribute directly to the vitality of the economy and especially high tech industries. Chinese space program has the same effect. They did interactive lessons from space to spur curiosity and innovative thinking.

The time frame stated in the article coincides the completion of China's space station. The module launch vehicle LM-5 is available and modules are undergoing ground tests. China is looking for cooperation in maximizing utility of this project. After decommissioning of the International Space Station in 2024, countries are that unable to develop their own space station but requires space based facilities will be looking for an alternative. China hopes to fill part of this role. Cooperation with European Space Agency and Russia had started a few year ago in anticipation of this.

Not many countries on this map are capable of creating their own space station or have an independently developed launch vehicle, thus they partner with those that have similar interests.
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Segment from 1:30-11:00, China had sent out invitation of cooperation to all UN nations.

Space station module
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