China Launches Algeria's First Communications Satellite in Landmark Export to Arab World

The Long March 3B carrier rocket lifted off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province at 12:40 am and flew for about 26 minutes before placing Alcomsat-1 into geostationary transfer orbit, according to China Great Wall Industry Corp, the project contractor. Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Algerian counterpart Abdelaziz Bouteflika exchanged congratulatory messages on Monday morning over the successful mission. Xi said the satellite project is an important manifestation of the China-Algeria comprehensive strategic partnership and a good example of space cooperation between China and Arab countries, adding that it will play a significant role in promoting Algeria's economic and social development. He expressed Beijing's willingness to work with Algeria to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in various fields, deepening the bilateral partnership for the benefit of both countries and peoples.