Article Posted on : - Apr 13, 2009

President Medvedev congratulated workers and veterans in the space industry

MOSCOW (BNS): Russia has commemorated Cosmonautics Day – the professional holiday of space and missile industry workers – to mark its first venture into space on April 12, 1961.

Congratulating workers and veterans in the industry on Sunday, President Dmitry Medvedev said that development of space industry has been a “strategic priority” of the state policy and the country should strive to update the industry through its scientific and technical potential.

“It is necessary now to pay most serious attention to updating of the space industry, renovation of its scientific and technical potential, the development of fundamental and applied investigations,” Medvedev said in his congratulatory message as quoted by Itar-Tass news agency.

“Economic successes and competitiveness of our country, the development of science and Russia’s security directly depend on its efficient operation,” he said.

Recalling Russia’s first space venture, the President said, “Domestication of outer space became one of the most spectacular and unforgettable chapters in the history of the 20th century. Yuri Gagarin’s flight on April 12, 1961 ushered in a new era in the development of civilisation.

“The first step into outer space was made thanks to the talent of our outstanding designers and bravery of cosmonauts. We are proud by right of the fact that this scientific and technical breakthrough was made precisely by our country,” he said.

The President expressed confidence that the unique experience and knowledge of the country’s specialists along with implementation of national and international programmes will consolidate Russia’s forward positions in space explorations and manned flights as well as multiply successes in the international market of space services.