BEIJING, Sept. 26  -- Overseas Chinese around the world have extended warm congratulations on China's successful launch of a third manned spacecraft Shenzhou-7.

    "I felt so excited and proud to be a Chinese when the Shenzhou-7 was launched successfully," said Chen Anshen, deputy chairman of the Chinese Association in Austria.

    Chen said he was also excited about the rapid progress of China's science and technology, which, he believed, will surely boost the development of the country's productivity and push the country's national economy to new heights.

    "It demonstrates that China not only has strong economic power but also remarkable technological strength," Zhao Xiaofeng, a compatriot from Hong Kong, said in Austria.

    The successful launch of Shenzhou-7 will also boost China's international image, she added.

    In Algiers, capital of Algeria, staff of the Chinese embassy and representatives from various Chinese enterprises in Algeria held parties to celebrate the great event.

    "This event is of great significance for China to enhance its national solidarity," Chinese Ambassador to Algeria Liu Yuhe said.

    In Argentina, the overseas Chinese also paid close attention to the launch of the spacecraft.

    "The launch of Shenzhou-7 signified a remarkable achievement China has made since the country adopted the policy of reform and opening-up in 1978," said Luo Chaoxi, secretary-general of the Argentine Association for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China.

    It showed that China has become a more influential power in the world, Luo said.

    The overseas Chinese in Peru also spoke highly of the event, saying it was "greatly encouraging and inspiring."

    "While we are still basking in the joy and pride brought by the Beijing Olympics, here comes another piece of good news -- the successful launch of Shenzhou-7," said Zhou Ruibo, chairman of the Peruvian Association for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China.

    "It shows that China's aerospace technology has entered a brand new stage," said Zhou.

    China successfully launched its third manned spacecraft on Thursday with three astronauts on board to attempt the country's first-ever space walk.