All of China's 14 taikonauts in service have been trained in microgravity environment in Russia, a senior official in charge of the country's manned space program said Monday.

This is part of China's efforts in international cooperation and exchanges in space technology, said Tang Xianming, director of China Manned Space Engineering Office, at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office.

China has sent US and French satellites into space with Chinese rockets from Chinese launch pads over the past years, winning understanding and support of international space circle, the official said.

"We will continue international exchanges and cooperation in this field," Tang said.

(Xinhua News Agency October 17, 2005)