Heads of China's Central People's Government offices in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region HKSAR separately sent telegrams of condolence to family of Chuang Shih-ping here Sunday, expressing their sadness over Chuang's death.

Those sending out telegrams of condolence included Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in HKSAR Gao Siren, Commissioner of the Foreign Ministry's Office in HKSAR Lu Xinhua, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Hong Kong Garrison Commander Wang Jitang and Political Commissar Zhang Rucheng

Chuang Shih-ping, a renowned figure in Hong Kong, died of heart failure at the age of 97 here early Saturday morning.

"Learning Chuang's passing away all of a sudden, I am extremely grieved," Gao said in his telegram of condolence, adding Chuang was a revered senior, a great teacher and a helpful friend with good moral standing and undisputed reputation.

Gao spoke highly of Chuang's contribution to the prosperity of the country, the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, Hong Kong's smooth return to China's motherland and its stability since the sovereignty handover.

"Chuang had set an example for us with his selfless devotion to the country, his straightforwardness, magnanimity and open- mindedness," he said.

In his telegram of condolence, Commissioner of the Foreign Ministry's Office in HKSAR Lu Xinhua lauded Chuang's passion for the country as a renowned leader of returned overseas Chinese, a patriot and a noted banker.

"Chuang had bent his back to the task of developing the country and maintaining Hong Kong's prosperity and stability," Lu said.

In their joint telegram of condolence to Chuang's family, PLA Hong Kong Garrison Commander Wang Jitang and Political Commissar Zhang Rucheng said Chuang had made important contribution to Hong Kong's smooth return to China's motherland and the successful implementation of the "One Country, Two Systems".

The two PLA generals said Chuang was a role model for Chinese among returned overseas Chinese, the business and cultural circles with his love towards the motherland and Hong Kong.

Source: Xinhua