MINSK, 10 September (BelTA) - Space exploration is a common task of the humanity, China's first man in space, the general director of China Manned Space Agency Yang Liwei told the media during the 31th planetary congress of the Association of Space Explorers in Minsk on 10 September, BelTA has learned.

"I believe that space exploration is the common goal of the humanity. Some states have achieved a lot in space exploration. Others are just starting their journey. But all countries are cooperating in this area. Our main goal is to develop in this direction and to explore the unexplored space. We have already made great progress in this matter," Yang Liwei said.

He is often called "Chinese Yuri Gagarin". "I am very happy about this and I am proud that they call me that," Yang Liwei said.

Yang Liwei came to Minsk for the second time. "Belarusian people are very kind and hospitable. They are always ready to help," he shared his feelings.

The 31th planetary congress of the Association of Space Explorers is held in Minsk on 9-15 September. The ASE is an international not-for-profit organization that unites cosmonauts and astronauts from many countries. It was established in 1985 to share the best practices in the area of manned space flights. The Planetary Congress of the Association of Space Explorers gathers cosmonauts and representatives of scientific research institutions and national space agencies on an annual basis.