China's first 8K space documentary film Shenzhou 13 made its overseas debut on Friday night at a reception held by the Chinese Embassy in the UK marking the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

More than 400 guests attended the event in London, including ambassadors from various countries to the UK, representatives of the Chinese community, and prominent figures in British society.

The film, led and produced by China Media Group (CMG), was personally filmed by Shenzhou-13 astronauts Zhai Zhigang, Wang Yaping and Ye Guangfu during their six-month mission aboard China's space station. 

Captured from the astronauts' perspective, the documentary showcases both the grandeur of the universe and the everyday life of the astronauts in orbit.

Speaking at the reception, Wang Qi, Chargé d'Affaires of the Chinese Embassy, emphasized that China and the UK have maintained ambassadorial-level diplomatic relations for 53 years and that bilateral ties are on a positive trajectory of improvement and development. 

He noted that the two countries share many commonalities and interests, with vast potential for cooperation in trade, education, culture, health and other fields. 

Wang also expressed his gratitude, stressing that the development of China-UK relations relies on the steadfast support and dedicated efforts of people from all sectors in both countries.

Representing the UK government, Seema Malhotra, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, highlighted Britain's commitment to taking a principled, long-term, and strategic approach to China. 

She stressed that there is much more the two sides can achieve together in clean energy, innovation, green finance, and sustainable infrastructure.

As the first Chinese space documentary to go global, Shenzhou 13 drew wide attention from both Chinese and international guests, serving as a new bridge for Sino-British cultural and scientific exchange. 

To commemorate the premiere, CMG set up a premiere memory wall, where attendees signed their names and left messages expressing hope for deeper collaboration in technology and culture between the two countries.

Guests praised the documentary's stunning ultra-HD visuals and unique storytelling by the astronauts. 

Martin Albrow, a fellow of the British Academy of Social Sciences, described the film as awe-inspiring and said it raised expectations for deeper Sino-British cooperation in culture, science, technology, and aerospace. 

Amer Sayed, founder and CEO of Aviation Education Pathways, highlighted China's growing role in global aerospace, noting that the country ranks among the world's leaders, not only in space technology, but also in emerging fields such as drones, low-altitude aircraft, and air taxis. 

He praised Shenzhou 13 as a groundbreaking and inspiring work that reflects the pace of China's innovation.

British economist Dr. Savvas Savouri echoed these sentiments, remarking that China is not only one of the world's most dynamic economies but is also making continuous breakthroughs in aerospace and other emerging industries. 

He expressed confidence that China and the UK would achieve even greater results in cultural, technological, and economic exchanges in the years to come.

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