Three of Hong Kong's most senior officials have hailed the work of Tung Chee Hwa during his seven years service as Chief Executive.

Chief Secretary for Administration Donald Tsang, who will act as Chief Executive after Mr Tung's departure, applauded his dedication to Hong Kong.

Tung tribute: Chief Secretary for Administration Donald Tsang, Financial Secretary Henry Tang and Secretary for Justice Elsie Leung hail Tung Chee Hwa's work during his seven years service as Chief Executive.

Service commitment

Mr Tsang said he and the Government will continue to faithfully serve Mr Tung until his final day in office.

"His resignation is still subject to the approval of the Central Government. Until then he is still my superior and our Chief Executive, and the administration will continue to function normally," he said.

"Having worked with him for over seven years, if his resignation is approved, I will certainly feel a sense of loss. But I know I must respect his decision, and I hope very much the community will do the same."

Financial Secretary Henry Tang echoed Mr Tsang's praise, saying Mr Tung oversaw the successful implementation of the One Country Two Systems formula, and safely steered Hong Kong through tough times, such as the Asian economic crisis.

Secretary for Justice Elsie Leung said Mr Tung has set a good example in leading Hong Kong.

"If you compare Hong Kong at the worst of times a couple of years ago and Hong Kong today, I am quite sure that history will give Mr Tung a proper assessment, and the citizens of Hong Kong will give Mr Tung a proper assessment."

Further tributes

Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee and Secretary for Environment, Transport & Works Dr Sarah Liao said they will continue to serve the public despite Mr Tung's resignation.

Describing him as a loyal, honest and hardworking leader, Dr Liao said Mr Tung rendered great support to environmental protection and infrastructure projects.

"I feel sorry for his resignation and will miss him very much," she said.