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The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, made the following statement today (Monday) :

The change of office title of the "Xinhua News Agency (Hong Kong Branch)" to "Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region" (Liaison Office) properly reflects the responsibilities authorised by the Central People's Government for the office to undertake in Hong Kong. The HKSAR Government welcomes this change.

Since the reunification, the Central Government has faithfully implemented the policies of "One Country, Two Systems", "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" and "a high degree of autonomy" for Hong Kong. The continued success of "One Country, Two Systems" is the common wish of the Central Government and the HKSAR. This strategic policy direction is well established and will continue to be pursued.

The responsibilities of the "Liaison Office" have been clearly set out and do not impinge on areas within the autonomies of the HKSAR.

Following the establishment of the Special Administrative Region, the HKSAR Government has established smooth and effective working relationships with the Central Government and relevant departments in the Mainland in accordance with the Basic Law and the principle of "One Country, Two Systems".

Our channel of communication with the Central Government is direct. Our liaison mechanisms with the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC in the HKSAR and the Hong Kong Garrison of the Chinese People's Liberation Army will continue. There will be no change to these liaison and communication channels. We will also maintain our liaison and communication with the "Liaison Office" on matters which fall within their purview.

End/Monday, January 17, 2000

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