The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, received the Central People's Government (CPG)'s formal authorisation for the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) to negotiate visa abolition agreements and arrangements with other foreign countries today.

An SAR Government spokesman welcomed the CPG's positive statement about promoting the travel convenience of Hong Kong residents. Holders of the HKSAR passport enjoy visa-free access to 36 countries at present.

"We have done a lot to promote the travel convenience of Hong Kong residents. We will continue to approach more countries, especially popular destinations of Hong Kong people, for visa-free access for HKSAR passport holders," the spokesman said.