China’s Manned Space Team Engages with Hong Kong Technology and Education Representatives

On 30th November, a delegation from China’s Manned Space Agency (CMSA) convened with representatives from the technology and education sectors in Hong Kong to explore avenues for advancing the city’s innovation and technology industries. The luncheon, which was orchestrated by Hong Kong’s technology and education sectors, provided the perfect setting for both parties to engage in discussions regarding potential collaborations in the field.

During the prestigious meeting, Lin Xiqiang, the deputy director of CMSA, led the delegation and lauded the valuable contributions of Hong Kong’s technology and education sectors to various space-related activities. These commendable efforts encompassed the “A Dialogue Between Space and Earth” initiative, as well as educational classes conducted by the Shenzhou-13 crew members. Furthermore, Lin underscored the historic recruitment of payload specialists from Hong Kong and Macao for the first time, marking a significant milestone in integrating the city into the national manned space program.

Lin expressed sanguinity regarding Hong Kong’s forthcoming involvement in the aerospace industry as the progress of manned spaceflight continues. He envisioned a plethora of opportunities and platforms for Hong Kong to contribute to the flourishing aerospace sector of the motherland.

In response, Sun Dong, the secretary for innovation, technology, and industry of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, acknowledged the profound significance of recruiting payload specialists from Hong Kong for the first time. This pivotal milestone not only granted Hong Kong residents the opportunity to partake in the national manned space program but also symbolised the country’s support for and recognition of Hong Kong’s technology sector. Sun also underscored Hong Kong’s solid groundwork in basic scientific research and its commitment to harnessing these strengths to further advance the nation’s aspiration of becoming a prominent aerospace power.

The six-day visit to Hong Kong and Macao by the delegation was made possible through the invitation of the HKSAR government and the Macao SAR government. Its primary objective was to cultivate stronger connections and facilitate dialogue on potential collaborations in the aerospace industry. This meeting serves to reaffirm the dedication of both China’s manned space program and Hong Kong’s technology and education sectors to work in unison towards mutual progress.