Astronauts Zhai Zhigang, Liu Boming and Jing Haipeng and the rest of the Shenzhou VII manned space mission delegation wrapped up their 4-day visit to Hong Kong yesterday and moved on to Macao, their next port of call.

Still savoring the sights and sounds of their visit in our minds, we should start pondering one question: What have they left for us?

Over the past few days, the delegation took part in more than 10 activities organized in their honor, bringing joy to both sides of the Victoria Harbour.

They shared spectacular stories about space walks, sang a rousing rendition of "Descendants of the Dragon" and declared "We love Hong Kong". More importantly, they brought the SAR support and blessings from the central government and mainland compatriots, as well as the example of their own courage and confidence.

In recent years, the central government has shown its special care for Hong Kong by making the two SARs the first destinations of visit by delegations from the Shenzhou missions and Olympic medalists, an arrangement that has almost become a rule.

This week's visit from the Shenzhou VII delegation coincided with the financial tsunami, a time when Hong Kong people are under immense economic pressure. The delegation was entrusted by the central government and mainland compatriots a very important mission - to deliver the message that the central government will spare no effort to helping Hong Kong surmount the present challenge and that the motherland is Hong Kong's strongest supporter.

Upward of a decade ago, the Asian financial crisis attacked the city with equally overwhelming force. The impact on Hong Kong, however, was lighter than in neighbouring economies and the SAR recovered faster thanks to support from the mainland.

The same happened during the SARS epidemic, when the central government was decisive enough to lend a helping hand to Hong Kong and bring the epidemic under control even when the mainland faced a similar predicament.

Following the onset of the current crisis, President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao have stated unequivocally that the central government would do its utmost to help the SAR steer through the financial storm. The pledge from the central government leaders and pep talks from Shenzhou astronauts were intended to strengthen the confidence of the people of Hong Kong so that they will work together and rise up to the challenge.

Let us not forget what Zhai said when he tried to encourage Hongkongers by telling them how he kept his calm and finally succeeded in opening the spacecraft's door to perform the space walk - "I'm sure Hong Kong will be able to open the door to another economic success".

(HK Edition 12/09/2008 page1)