Vice-President Xi Jinping has congratulated Hong Kong for its success in the Beijing 2008 Olympic and Paralympic equestrian events.

In his message sent today Mr Xi said the equestrian events' organisation won unanimous applause from athletes, coaches, officials and spectators. Hong Kong also impressed with its good venues, facilities and support services.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang thanked the Central Government for its support and encouragement, adding it was the city's great honour to be a co-host. He also noted the high praise of the events by the participating teams, spectators and the media.

He attributed the success to support from the International Olympic Committee, International Paralympic Committee, Federation Equestre Internationale, Beijing Organising Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad, Hong Kong Sports Federation & Olympic Committee, Hong Kong Paralympic Committee & Sports Association for the Physically Disabled, Equestrian Events Hong Kong Fund and the Jockey Club.

Mr Tsang said it was also due to the hard work of government departments, the Equestrian Company and its volunteers, and support from spectators.

"It is our pleasure to participate in the Beijing Olympics. Hong Kong will continue to work hard for the success of the East Asian Games to be held in 2009," he said.