The State Council has endorsed Chief Executive Donald Tsang's appointment as the Third-term Chief Executive of Hong Kong. Premier Wen will present him with the instrument of appointment in Beijing this coming Sunday.

Director of the Chief Executive's Office John Tsang, Director of Information Services Edward Yau, Deputy Private Secretary Patrick Li, Senior Special Assistant Chan Kin-ping and Assistant Director (Media) Donald Chen will accompany Mr Tsang on his visit to the capital.

He will return to Hong Kong on April 10. During his absence, Chief Secretary Rafael Hui will be acting Chief Executive.

In a statement issued today, Mr Tsang thanked the Central People's Government for his appointment, and said it was an honour for him to continue to lead the Hong Kong Government and promote the city's continued development.

CE to lead in pragmatic manner

"I have a huge mission. In the next five years, I would strive to lead the SAR Government in a pragmatic manner and to bring Hong Kong's development to a new height. I shall not fail the trust the CPG and the people of Hong Kong have placed in me," he said.

"During the election campaign in the past two months, I solicited views from members of the Election Committee, and I reached out to people from all walks of life, understanding their needs and expectations. These exchanges will, I am sure, help the Administration's future policy formulation.

"Nobody alone can create a better Hong Kong. I hope you can join me in working towards a brighter future for all."