Chief Executive Carrie Lam today extended wholehearted congratulations to the three astronauts of the Shenzhou-12 spacecraft for the successful completion of their spaceflight mission.
Mrs Lam offered the congratulations on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to Nie Haisheng, Liu Boming and Tang Hongbo who returned to Earth after the mission.
"The three astronauts returned to Earth safely after a three-month-long stay in space, successfully completing the first crewed mission for space station construction of the country's manned space programme.
“The success of this historic mission demonstrates the continuous efforts of the country in breaking new ground in aerospace technology, consolidating its leading position in the global aerospace arena and making Chinese people all over the world proud.”
Mrs Lam said the people of Hong were privileged to have taken part in the “The Spirit of the Times Shines upon Hong Kong” activity series to deepen their understanding of the space mission.
Early this month, several scientific researchers and students had a real-time online chat with the three astronauts while they were in space.
“The astronauts cordially answered the questions raised by the students at the activity venue. The event received an overwhelming response from the community.”
The Chief Executive expressed gratitude to the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR and the China Manned Space Agency as well as various organisations and relevant units for their efforts in organising the activity.
“I also express admiration for the three astronauts, who introduced difficult content in a simple and interesting way.”
Additionally, the country arranged an aerospace technology delegation comprising a number of eminent scientists to visit Hong Kong in June during which they spoke with students on the latest development of the nation's astronautical endeavours.
They also brought with them lunar soil samples collected from the moon last year for public display in Hong Kong for the first time, allowing Hong Kong people to share the country's distinguished aerospace achievements.
Mrs Lam said: "These invaluable activities are testimony to the care and support of the country for Hong Kong, and they have inspired many Hong Kong students in aerospace and other scientific fields.”
She said she hopes the central authorities will continue to arrange activities in Hong Kong to showcase the latest developments of the country, noting such activities would strengthen the sense of belonging of Hong Kong compatriots to the motherland and nurture talents who are passionate about science, persevering and innovative.
“In fact, Hong Kong's scientific research capability is outstanding and university research teams have been participating in the nation's space exploration programme.
“The Hong Kong SAR Government will press ahead with the city's innovation and technology development and support the participation of various institutions in the national projects on aerospace and other technology, making contributions to the development of our country as a science and technology power.”
http://dlvr.it/S7lyQW
