Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang, on behalf of the people of Hong Kong, congratulated the motherland on the successful launch of spacecraft Shenzhou VI on Wednesday.

"The successful launch of spacecraft Shenzhou VI signifies an important milestone in the development of our country's manned spacecraft technology. Shenzhou VI, carrying two astronauts to space is an historic breakthrough in our quest to carry more people into space for a longer time. Like the Hong Kong people, I am overwhelmed with pride," Tsang said in a message.

"The successful launch and return of Shenzhou V in 2003 marked a new era of our country's mission to explore space. Experts of our motherland have made the best use of the past two years to improve the design of the spacecraft.

"The successful launch of Shenzhou VI epitomizes our country's efforts and achievements in developing space technology," he said.

"We are all looking forward to witnessing the victorious return of the spacecraft and the heroic crew members," Tsang said.

(Xinhua News Agency October 12, 2005)