Sincere congratulations: Acting Chief Executive Henry Tang praised Donald Tsang on his appointment as Hong Kong's Chief Executive.

The State Council has appointed Donald Tsang Hong Kong's new chief executive. The appointment takes effect immediately and will end on June 30, 2007. Mr Tsang will depart for Beijing on Thursday and be sworn in as Chief Executive on Friday.

Premier Wen Jiabao today chaired a State Council meeting in Beijing to study the result of the Chief Executive Election 2005.

The council endorsed the election result and formally appointed Mr Tsang as the new chief executive of Hong Kong.

Premier Wen said the Hong Kong Chief Executive by-election complied with the Basic Law and Chief Executive Election Ordinance and was carried out in an open, fair and honest manner. 

Noting Mr Tsang had garnered the support of 714 Election Committee members, Premier Wen said Mr Tsang is well-supported by all sectors in Hong Kong.

Mr Tsang has more than 30 years' Government service

The premier noted Mr Tsang has been serving the Hong Kong Government for more than 30 years and has made great contributions to the successful implementation of "One Country, Two System".

Mr Tsang has also done much work to maintain Hong Kong's stability and prosperity, Premier Wen added.

Noting Mr Tsang has strong executive skills and is familiar with the city's overall situation and the Government's operation, Premier Wen was confident Mr Tsang and his team would be able to lead the territory in overcoming difficulties and promoting prosperity and stability.

Acting CE offers sincere congratulations

Speaking to the press at noon, Acting Chief Executive Henry Tang offered his sincere congratulations to Mr Tsang.

Praising Mr Tsang's outstanding leadership and extensive experience in the governance of Hong Kong, Mr Tang said Hong Kong will continue to be stable and prosperous under Mr Tsang's leadership.

Mr Tang said the whole community should join Mr Tsang to work towards the long-term interests of Hong Kong.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang will meet the press later this afternoon.