The Shenzhou-XVI manned spaceship, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, blasts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, May 30, 2023. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu on Tuesday offered his congratulations on the successful launch of the Shenzhou XVI manned spacecraft, saying he’s also happy that about 10 Hong Kong and Macao residents have passed the first round in the selection of payload experts.

After watching the live broadcast of the launch mission with other Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government officials, Lee said he’s honored and proud that the nation’s manned space program has made continuous progress and success, as the Shenzhou XVI is the first manned mission after China’s space station program entered the application and development stage.

Lee said the selection of payload experts in Hong Kong demonstrates the nation’s care for the development of youth, as well its confidence in the city’s scientific development

He’s also delighted that some 10 candidates from the Hong Kong and Macao SARs have passed the primary selection round of the fourth batch of preparatory astronauts, and will go to Beijing for the next round next month. It’s the first time that candidates from the two SARs have been allowed to participate in the selection of payload experts.

READ MORE: China launches Shenzhou XVI manned spaceship

Describing it as a historical occasion, Lee said the selection of payload experts in Hong Kong demonstrates the nation’s care for the development of youth, as well its confidence in the city’s scientific development. This will motivate youngsters in Hong Kong to join the aerospace and technology industry and contribute to making the SAR an international center for science and technology.

He encouraged Hong Kong candidates from the civil service, hospital authorities, universities and other institutions and enterprises to do their part for the national space industry and bring glory to Hong Kong.

READ MORE: China to launch Shenzhou XVI manned spacecraft Tuesday、

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu speaks to the media ahead of an Executive Council meeting on May 30, 2023. (PHOTO / HKSAR GOVERNMENT)

With the care, support and trust of the motherland, Hong Kong residents are fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in the great cause of the country’s space missions, Lee said.

Contact the writer at mikegu@chinadailyhk.com