China has spent RMB 18 bln (approx USD$2.2 bln) on the manned spaceflight project in the past 11 years, said Zhou Xiaofei, Manager of the Manned Spaceflight Department, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation on April 26.

Zhou revealed the information at the International Space Law Seminar 2004, which opened on Apr. 26 in Beijing. At the meeting, Zhou delivered a speech titled "Development and prospect of China's manned spaceflight". He says the rapid development of the Chinese economy provides economic and technological base for its manned spaceflight.

About 8 bln yuan was used on construction of various facilities, including part of facilities at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, astronaut training center and the Beijing Spaceflight Center. These facilities not only provide necessary conditions for assembly, test and experiment, but also serve as bases for sustainable development of China's manned spaceflight project.

Another 10 bln yuan was used on the "Shenzhou" spacecraft, the carrier rocket and seven major systems for the project. Of the 10 bln yuan, 900 million went to the four unmanned spaceflights. While the organization of a manned spacecraft launch cost about 1 bln yuan.

China's manned spaceflight project officially kicked off in 1992. After launch of four unmanned spaceships, China accomplished its first manned spaceflight in last October.

(People's Daily April 28, 2004)