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The delegation of the Shenzhou-7 manned space mission attended a farewell ceremony hosted by the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, at Government House today (December 8) before concluding its four-day visit to Hong Kong.
The Chief Executive thanked members of the delegation for meeting Hong Kong people during their visit and sharing with them their spirit of perseverance and selfless contribution as well as the success of Chinaˇ¦s manned space mission. Their visit had not only added a new dynamic to Hong Kong but also brought joy to the community, he said.
Mr Tsang presented to the leader of the delegation Mr Zhang Jianqi and astronauts Zhai Zhigang, Liu Boming and Jing Haipeng a set of DVDs and photo albums recording their visit to Hong Kong.
Also attending the farewell ceremony were the Secretary for Justice, Mr Wong Yan Lung, SC, Secretary for Education, Mr Michael Suen, and Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Tsang Tak-sing.
The delegation then departed for Macau by ferry from the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan.
Before leaving Hong Kong, Mr Zhang Jianqi said that the delegation fully appreciated the support and enthusiasm of Hong Kong people for Chinaˇ¦s space mission. He pledged that they would do their best to achieve better results in the space mission.
During its four-day stay in Hong Kong, the delegation was warmly received by members of the public in various activities. Apart from sharing with primary, secondary and tertiary students their experiences in space exploration and knowledge of China's aerospace technology in two dialogue sessions, the delegation attended theˇ§Hong Kong Welcomes the Delegation of Shenzhou-7 Manned Space Mission Variety Showˇ¨ at the Hong Kong Stadium, leaving Hong Kong people with fond memories. The delegation also toured Victoria Harbour and the Peak to understand Hong Kongˇ¦s latest developments.
Ends/Monday, December 8, 2008
Issued at HKT 14:40
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