Delegates at the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation forum in Bangkok congratulated China yesterday following the successful launch.
Although the historic flight was not on the official agenda, delegates speaking informally said the flight was good for the region as a whole. 'I think [the space launch] is a great achievement for China,' said Susan Tyler of the US Department of Agriculture.
'I hope their missions in the future are safe.
'In the US, there has been controversy surrounding sending people into space since the Columbia disaster, but I believe we as mankind should continue to strive to reach into outer space.'
Homoka Ita Goasa, a trade officer from Papua New Guinea, said the launch signified China's rise as an economic power.
'Of course as China grows, Papua New Guinea benefits,' he said.
