The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, has today(Friday, HK time) given France's top bankers an in-depth briefing on how Hong Kong is handling the current financial turmoil in Asia.

At a dinner hosted by the French Banks' Association, Mr Tung told leading financial players that Hong Kong's strong economic fundamentals had helped ride out the turmoil and remained unscathed.

Hong Kong's currently board system and link to the US Dollar were of particular interest to the banking chiefs, whose organisations all have offices in Hong Kong and Asia.

There are currently 17 French banks operating in Hong Kong.

Later today (HK time) Mr Tung will meet the influential think-tank the Institut Francais des Relations Internationales and the Governor of the Bank of France, Mr Jean-Claude Trichet.

Mr Tung is due to meet the French President, Mr Jacques Chirac, at around 6 pm (HK time).

Hong Kong's latest developments, ways to enhance Hong Kong-French relationships and visa-free access for HKSAR Passport holders are likely to be discussed at the meeting.

Last night (Thursday, HK time) in France's second city Lyon, Mr Tung was guest of honour at a city lunch reception hosted by the Lyon Mayor and former Prime Minister, Mr Raymond Barre.

During the day, Mr Tung took a ride on Lyon's fully automated and driverless Metro line and visited a cancer research centre.

Mr Tung said he briefed Mr Barre on the current financial turbulence in Asia and its implications on Hong Kong.

He said he was happy to hear Mr Barre, who had for many years followed developments in Hong Kong and China, was confident in Hong Kong's future and its ability to manage the turmoil.

Mr Tung leaves Paris for Hong Kong later tonight and is due to arrive at Kai Tak tomorrow (Saturday) morning.