Laos' first-ever satellite was launched into space on Nov. 21, 2015 from the Xichang satellite launch center in China. (Photo : REUTERS)
The Laos government has launched on Wednesday, March 9, in Laos' capital Vientiane the in-orbit delivery of its first satellite built in cooperation with China, the Xinhua News Agency reported.
The delivery of Laos' first satellite was considered a milestone in China-Laos cooperation in the field of space technology, said Lao Minister of Post, Telecommunication and Communication Hiem Phommachanh during the ceremony.
The report said that the satellite is now ready to serve after all technical tests have been successfully completed.
Phommachanh said that the Lao government, especially the ministry, will provide the operator the favorable conditions in terms of policies and international cooperation.
The minister added that the satellite is expected to contribute to the country's socio-development as well as bring new income for the ASEAN country.
On the other hand, Vice President of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Yang Baohua said that the satellite project marks a concrete step in space technology cooperation between the two countries, which he said has great significance since it was the first export project of China's satellite to an ASEAN country.
Yang said that as a major project in implementing China's "Belt and Road" initiative, the satellite will promote the image of Laos, boost the development of its hi-tech industries as well as economy and culture.
The Lao Asia Pacific Satellite Company Ltd., a joint venture between China and Laos which will be in charge of commercial operation of the satellite, was also inaugurated after the ceremony.
The report said that the joint venture will provide satellite services for Laos and other neighboring countries such as satellite communications, satellite television broadcast, wireless broadband and other services.
Laos' first-ever satellite was launched into space on Nov. 21, 2015 from the Xichang satellite launch center in China.
