Japan's Noguchi Named 1st Asian Head of Int'l Astronaut Group

Beijing, Sept. 15 (Jiji Press)--Japanese astronaut Soichi Noguchi was elected as the first Asian president of the Association of Space Explorers at an annual meeting in Beijing on Monday. The association, set up in 1985, is a group of 375 astronauts from 35 countries. At annual meetings, members discuss the present and future of space development. At a news conference, Noguchi said his election reflects recognition of the expanding presence of Japanese astronauts and Japan's international contribution. Regarding the rise of China in the field of space, Noguchi said he hopes to promote dialogue between China and other countries engaging in space development. Noguchi, 49, will serve as the association's head for one year from Tuesday.