British group congratulates China on space mission

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-09-29 21:17

LONDON -- Britain's 48 Group Club Monday congratulated China on the successful landing of the Shenzhou VII spacecraft and the safe return of the three astronauts Sunday.

"This outstanding scientific achievement will speed the process of reform and opening up in China by leading technological reform, " said Stephen Perry, Chairman of the 48 Group Club, an independent British business network committed to promoting positive relations with China.

"While we await news of space stations and missions to the moon, we know that this one act will catapult China's telecom and other industries and enthuse your nation," Perry said in a message to Chinese Ambassador to Britain Fu Ying.

"As original icebreakers who fought to help the world see China's potential we feel very proud of your achievements, which we know you will use to help the Chinese people and peace throughout the world," he said.

The history of the 48 Group Club stems from the early 1950s, when some British groups, known as the "Icebreakers," began to establish mutually beneficial trade relations with the newly formed People's Republic of China.

Today's 48 Group Club -- which has grown to over 300 members -- continues to promote positive China-Britain relations.