Zhai Zhigang, the first Chinese who "set foot" on the outer space, said he was proud of the motherland after landing from a three-day historic mission Sunday afternoon.

"It was a glorious mission, full of challenges with a perfect result. I'm proud of my motherland." said Zhai, flashing a smile.

The three astronauts all appeared relaxed after landing on the grassland of Inner Mongolia, north China. Their were in good physical condition, according to the ground control of the mission.

"Before I took off, I told you the Chinese taikonauts are the best. Thank the motherland and the people!" said Liu Boming.

"We could felt the care of the country and people while in the abysmal space. Now we have safely returned," said Jing Haipeng.

The Shenzhou-7 that carried the three astronauts blasted off Thursday evening and flew 68 hours in space which included a 20-minute spacewalk on Saturday.

(Xinhua News Agency September 28, 2008)