BEIJING — Vice-Premier Liu Yandong called for speeding up development and application of quantum communication technology following the successful launch of the world’s first quantum satellite on Aug 16.

Liu called the launch of the domestically developed satellite, Quantum Experiments at Space Scale (QUESS), “an important step forward in China’s space science” and said it is significant for enhancing the country’s competitiveness and information security.

Urging universities, research institutions and enterprises to further coordinate efforts, she stressed completing the satellite’s in-orbit testing and experiments, securing the satellite’s in-orbit operations and data analysis, as well as putting quantum communication technology to practical use.

Liu also underscored speeding up development and use of satellite data, as well as the transfer of core technology.

She watched the launch of QUESS via video in Beijing, and congratulated all those involved in developing the satellite.

QUESS will conduct in-orbit experiments on quantum key distribution, quantum entanglement distribution, and quantum teleportation, among others.