Chief Executive John Lee has conducted a video conversation with Hong Kong’s first astronaut, Lai Ka-ying, and congratulated her on being included in the crew for the Shenzhou-23 mission.

Also joining the conversation were Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Sun Dong, and Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung.

When asked about her life at the China Astronaut Research & Training Center, Ms Lai revealed that every day is packed with activities. Despite the tough programme, she is glad to have finally made it and feels confident about completing the mission.

She mentioned that her children are happy studying in Beijing, and that never having been away from Hong Kong for this long, she hopes to return as soon as she completes her mission.

Prof Sun stressed that the Government is proud of Ms Lai meeting the standards to carry out a space mission in just over a year.

Mrs Yeung conveyed the honour and pride of all 170,000 civil servants in Ms Lai’s accomplishments.

The Chief Executive said that Ms Lai’s participation in the mission shows national recognition and also the country’s trust in and support for Hong Kong.

He urged Ms Lai to rest well, stay in good condition and relax her mind, and wished her a successful mission.