Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Tung Chee Hwa, on behalf of the people of Hong Kong, congratulated Wednesday the motherland on the successful launch of the Shenzhou-5 spacecraft.

"Hong Kong people and I are overwhelmed with pride and excitement following the successful launch of the first Chinese manned spacecraft which has been designed and developed by our motherland. We would like to extend our warmest congratulations to our country," he said.

With perseverance, courage and wisdom, the Chinese people have made their dream of conquering space come true, Tung said, adding that the accomplishment demonstrates China's standard of space technology, as well as its strength and international standing.

"The entire community of Hong Kong and I are waiting for the victorious return of our hero," said the chief executive.

(Xinhua News Agency October 16, 2003)