China's manned space program is a "relay" of mission and responsibilities between generations of astronauts, said Li Cong, one of the Shenzhou-18 trio at a press conference Wednesday, when sharing his experience of "joining forces" with crew members of Shenzhou-17 and Shenzhou-19 in China's Tiangong space station.
During their mission, the Shenzhou-18 crew relayed with other Chinese astronauts twice. On April 26, 2024, the Shenzhou-17 crew welcomed the Shenzhou-18 crew to board the Tiangong space station. Half a year later, On Oct 30, the Shenzhou-18 crew "hosted" the next generation of Chinese astronauts, the Shenzhou-19 crew, at the Tiangong tation, marking the fifth "joining forces" of Chinese astronauts in space.
"The manned space program is a relay. It is the accumulated experiences of multiple missions, and the vitality brought by generations of newcomers, that drive the development of our great cause for a better future. Now, the 'relay baton' is handed to our crew. Standing on the shoulders of giants, our 'starting line' is getting higher, and the challenges are also piling up. As the saying goes, there is no 'best', but only a 'better,'" said Li.
"The two times of 'joining forces' shared similarities. We were handing down responsibilities, missions, and the spirit of the manned space program. But there was a difference: to join forces with the Shenzhou-17 crew, we were taking over the space relay baton of our 'Shenzhou family,' thinking more of how to run our leg of the race well, and were filled with responsibilities and expectations. While joining forces with the Shenzhou-19 crew, we were handing over the baton, thinking how to help them quickly adapt to space life and start working faster, our hearts filled with both hopes and reluctance to leave. Every space meeting with other crews was unforgettable, with the reluctance and sadness when parting, but also the joy and happiness of coming together. This is wonderful. As always, China's space Program is always worth looking forward to," he said.
Shenzhou-18 astronaut compares China's manned space program to "relay"
Shenzhou-18 astronaut compares China's manned space program to "relay"
A Chinese envoy on Friday called on factions in Syria to advance an inclusive political process and alleviate the humanitarian crisis, noting that the current situation in the country remains fragile.
Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, said at a UN Security Council meeting that advancing an inclusive political process is key to resolving the Syrian issue. China hopes that factions in Syria will uphold the ceasefire and integration agreement reached and restore stability as soon as possible, he said.
"We welcome the efforts made by the Syrian transitional government to protect the rights of ethnic minority groups. We hope that factions in Syria will adhere to the Syrian-led and Syrian-owned principle, engage in inclusive dialogue, and advance the political reconciliation process," Fu said.
He stated that countering terrorism is a prerequisite for maintaining security. Terrorist forces remain active in Syria, posing a serious threat to the security and stability of the country and the entire region.
The evolving situation in northeastern Syria has given rise to security risks involving extremist group terrorists, causing widespread concern within the international community. Fu noted that facilities holding terrorists and the Al-Hol camp should receive high attention and be properly managed.
The Chinese envoy also stressed that alleviating the humanitarian crisis is urgent for improving the living conditions of the Syrian people.
"The humanitarian situation in Syria is dire, with 16.5 million people in urgent need of humanitarian aid. Hundreds of thousands of people in the northeastern region have been displaced and are struggling in freezing cold and torrential rain. The international community, especially traditional donors, should increase humanitarian assistance in Syria and ensure that UN agencies and other humanitarian organizations receive adequate financial support. All parties need to help Syria recover and develop its economy in order to fundamentally address the root causes of its humanitarian plight and instability," Fu said.
Fu also pointed out that the situation in Syria is closely linked to that in the Middle East. The Golan Heights are recognized by the international community as occupied Syrian territory, and the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement should be observed. Israel should withdraw from Syrian territory as soon as possible.
He emphasized that China stands ready to continue to play a constructive role in helping Syria achieve security, stability, and development at an early date.
Chinese envoy urges political process, humanitarian aid in Syria
