Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa has welcomed the US State Department's lifting of its travel warning for Hong Kong.

"I am delighted to learn that the US Department of State has cancelled its travel warning for Hong Kong," Mr Tung said in a statement.

"This is welcome news, especially in the wake of the lifting of the travel advisory by the US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and the World Health Organisation."

The State Department has authorised the return to Hong Kong of US Government employees and their families who had chosen to leave the region due to the SARS outbreak.

The US Consulate General in Hong Kong had been in "authorised departure" status since April 2, meaning that non-emergency personnel and family members could leave, if they wanted, on a voluntary basis.

State Department officials said the health authorities in Hong Kong have been largely successful in bringing SARS under control.

"The cancellation is further recognition overseas of our successful efforts to contain the spread of SARS. It is also a strong assurance for US business people and travellers that Hong Kong is a safe place to visit," the Chief Executive added.

"We will, of course, remain vigilant and continue with the measures we have put in place to protect public health."

HK Commissioner to US thanks health practitioners

Hong Kong's Commissioner to the US, Jacqueline Willis, joined with the people of Hong Kong in welcoming the US State Department's revision of its Hong Kong travel warning.

"The revision is based on sound science and recognition of the strength of Hong Kong's health and medical system. The containment of the virus is of particular reassurance to global travelers - especially here in the United States," she said.

"We thank the Centers for Disease Control and health professionals around the world for their remarkable cooperation as well as the support of the Hong Kong community," she added.

"Even in adversity, Hong Kong proved itself resilient and inspiring. These same qualities will serve us well in the months ahead as Asia's world city welcomes back the world and emerges stronger than before."