Welcoming ceremonies underway

cctv.com 10-17-2005 14:09

The two astronauts, Colonel Fei Junlong and Colonel Nie Haisheng have arrived in Beijing following their return from space early this morning. Crowds of well wishers were anxiously awaiting their arrival.

The special plane carrying Fei and Nie from the Shenzhou Six spacecraft touched town at the western suburbs airport in Beijing at around half past nine this morning.

The Chinese National Defense Minister, Cao Gangchuan, greeted the two astronauts at the airport.

Fei and Nie reported the results their space mission to the minister.

Fei said, "We have successfully completed our space mission, and returned to the motherland at about half past four this morning."

Cao thanked the two astronauts for their hard work.

Cao said, "Both of you have worked very hard. You've overcome massive difficulties and displayed your great courage. Your triumph is remarkable. On behalf of the CPC Central Committee, the State Council and the Central Military Commission I warmly welcome your return to the motherland. We really appreciate your efforts."

Those at the scene to welcome the two heroes included their relatives, the commander-in-Chief of the manned spacecraft program, the commander of the air force, and Yang Liwei, the first Chinese astronaut in space.

An hour later, the two astronauts were at the China Aerospace City, where they will stay for the next few days.

A grand welcoming ceremony was also held for the two. Fei and Nie travelled on a limousine convertible, and were greeted with cheering crowds, bouquets of flowers, firecrackers, and a traditional Chinese drum show.

Their fellow astronauts were also present, following in a second convertible, all-waving happily to the crowds.

Editor:Chen Zhuo  Source:CCTV.com