2nd LD-Writethru: See-off ceremony held for Chinese astronauts of Shenzhou-11 mission

A see-off ceremony for two Chinese astronauts of the upcoming Shenzhou-11 manned space mission was held on Monday at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.

The Shenzhou-11 manned spacecraft is scheduled to be launched at 7:30 a.m. Monday Beijing Time.

Fan Changlong, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), met with astronauts Jing Haipeng and Chen Dong at the apartment compound Wentiange, or "Ask-the-Sky Pavilion," of the launch center.

On behalf of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the State Council, the CMC and General Secretary of CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping, Fan wished the mission success.

"You are going to travel in space to pursue the space dream of the Chinese nation," Fan said.

"With all the scientific and rigorous training, discreet preparation, and rich experience accumulated from previous missions, you will accomplish the glorious and tough task", Fan added.

"We wish you success and look forward to your triumphant return," Fan said.

The astronauts, in white space suits, expressed confidence and resolve for the mission.

After the brief meeting, the astronauts came to Yuanmengyuan Square, or "Dreams-come-true" square, where they were greeted by a cheerful crowd waving flowers and national flags.

They reported to Zhang Youxia, commander-in-chief of the country's manned space program, "We are ready! Please give instruction."

"Proceed!" Zhang said.

The astronauts then got on a vehicle and left for the launch pad in cheers and patriotic song chanted by the crowd. Endi