The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, visited the Stonecutters Naval Base of the PLA Garrison in the HKSAR this morning.

He was greeted by the garrison's Commander, Major General Liu Zhenwu, and its Political Commissar, Major General Xiong Ziren.

Accompanying Mr Tung on the visit were the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mrs Anson Chan; the Financial Secretary, Mr Donald Tsang; the Secretary for Justice, Miss Elsie Leung; the Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Michael Suen; the Secretary for Constitutional Affairs, Mr Nicholas Ng; and the Secretary for Security, Mr Peter Lai.

Also present were heads of departments that have frequent contacts with the PLA, including the Police, Immigration, Customs and Excise, Architectural Services, Electrical and Mechanical Services, Marine and Civil Aviation.

Mr Tung took the opportunity to welcome the PLA Garrison on behalf of the SAR Government. He said: "The stationing of the PLA Garrison, composed of the army, navy and air force, has not only realised the People's Republic of China's sovereignty in Hong Kong's land, sea and air space, but has also provided a strong guarantee in the defence of the HKSAR."

The Garrison has not only required its members to familiarise themselves with the Basic Law, the Garrison Law and relevant local legislation, but has also compiled guidelines on these legislation to strictly govern the actions of the entire garrison stationed in Hong Kong. Their serious attitude towards the Basic Law should be a good example and an encouragement for Hong Kong people, he said.

The Chief Executive then presented a souvenir flag to Major General Liu Zhenwu. Major General Xiong Ziren also presented a souvenir to Mr Tung.

Mr Tung and his party showed great interest as they were briefed by PLA officers on board a missile escort craft and a transportation vessel.

(Click here for photos taken during today's visit)