The delegation of Shenzhou VI manned space mission arrived in Macao Wednesday for a three-day visit and academic exchanges at the invitation of Edmund Ho Hau Wah, chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (MSAR).

The 30-strong delegation, including taikonauts Fei Junlong and Nie Haisheng, disembarked the ferry jetboat at the Macao Ferry Terminal at noon.

A large crowd waving China's miniature national flags and MSAR flags welcomed the space heroes.

The taikonauts smiled, accepted bouquets, shook hands with fans and signed autographs.

The delegation was greeted by Wang Jinxiang, deputy director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the MSAR, and Ao Man Long, Secretary for Transportation and Public Works of the MSAR government.

During its stay here, the delegation is to meet with local students, give lectures and attend a grand evening gala hosted by the MSAR government.

(Xinhua News Agency November 30, 2005)