The newly appointed Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Donald Tsang said on June 21 the chief executive's job is challenging and a heavy responsibility.

Donald Tsang Yam-kuen, new chief executive of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), speaks during a press conference held at the HKSAR government headquarters in Hong Kong, south China, June 21, 2005.

He also said that the support of the Chinese Central Government and Hong Kong people is essential to his work.

Tsang made the remarks at a press conference in Hong Kong Tuesday afternoon after the State Council appointed him as the new chief executive of the HKSAR in a special meeting earlier Tuesday.

Tsang said he was pleased to know that the Central Government had appointed him as Hong Kong's chief executive for the remainder of the second term.

He will fly to Beijing on June 23 and be formally sworn in on June 24. Tsang said he will begin to implement his program of work immediately.

Tsang asked the community to join him "in starting a new chapter for this remarkable city we call home."

Promising to keep up his dialogues with the Hong Kong community, Tsang said people's valuable advice can help him avoid losing directions.

He said Hong Kong people's message is loud and clear. They want a government with the patience to listen, which is sensitive to their needs, prompt and timely in action, and capable of preserving the values and institutions that Hong Kong people have long treasured.

Tsang said he wants to demonstrate to Hong Kong people that he stands ready to act, and to act in a timely way for their welfare and interests.

He also wants to restore harmony and inclusiveness in the community and give Hong Kong people a government that deserves their trust.

The chief executive pledged he will endeavor to deliver the modest ambitions that he promised during the election.

According to a decree signed Tuesday by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, Tsang will assume his office on June 21 and his term will expire on June 30, 2007.

Source: Xinhua