Chief Executive Carrie Lam met Commander-in-chief of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison Major General Peng Jingtang at Government House today and welcomed his assumption of office in Hong Kong.

Mrs Lam said the Hong Kong Garrison is a symbol of national sovereignty and has been performing its functions and responsibilities in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in strict accordance with the Basic Law, the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Garrisoning of the Hong Kong SAR and other relevant laws.

She noted that the Hong Kong Garrison has always been well-disciplined and law-abiding, providing staunch support for maintaining the long-term prosperity and stability of the Hong Kong SAR.

The Chief Executive said that the garrison has been committed to deepening communication and exchanges with Hong Kong society, participating in charitable activities in the community as well as organising frequently such activities as open days for its military sites, summer camps for youths and tertiary students.

Such interaction enhances the understanding of national defence and the armed forces among various sectors of Hong Kong, encouraging the respect and fond regard from members of the public, she added.

Mrs Lam also believes that the Hong Kong Garrison, under the leadership of Major General Peng, will continue to uphold its excellent tradition of contributing to the Hong Kong SAR, working with the Hong Kong SAR Government to jointly safeguard the sovereignty, security and development interests of the nation and help maintain Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability.