7th June 2023 – (Hong Kong) The Chief Executive of Hong Kong, Mr John Lee, met with Hong Kong candidates for the recruitment of payload specialists for the National Manned Space Programme at Government House on 7th June to show his support. Also attending the meeting were the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong; the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong; and the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, Ms Carol Yip.
Mr Lee noted that the recruitment of the fourth batch of astronauts and the recruitment of payload specialists in Hong Kong for the first time last year gave Hong Kong citizens the opportunity to participate in the National Manned Space Programme. He said that this demonstrated China’s recognition of Hong Kong’s talent in the fields of scientific research and innovation, and affirmed Hong Kong as an international innovation and technology center.
He was pleased to note that more than 10 Hong Kong candidates from government departments, the Hospital Authority, universities, and other institutions and enterprises had passed the preliminary screening for the payload specialist selection process. He encouraged the candidates to do their best in the second round of the selection, giving full play to their strengths and overcoming challenges with unwavering determination.
Mr Lee wished all candidates success and hoped that they would stand out from many others, striving to realise the space aspirations of Hong Kong people and contributing to the aerospace endeavours of the country. The Chief Executive’s support for the Hong Kong candidates for the National Manned Space Programme recruitment highlights the government’s commitment to promoting scientific research and innovation in Hong Kong.