Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki tonight attended the closing ceremony of the 19th Asian Games at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Stadium.

Mr Chan said the Hong Kong, China delegation has made great efforts in striving for excellence in this edition of the Asian Games.

He lauded their remarkable achievements in winning a total of 53 medals, including eight golds, 16 silvers and 29 bronzes, a record-breaking total attained by Hong Kong athletes in the Asian Games.

The Chief Secretary said the athletes have brought glory to the city and pride to all Hong Kong citizens, adding that he believed all Hong Kong citizens would be proud of the country's success in presenting to the world a great sporting event that is distinctly Chinese, uniquely Asian and spectacular. 

Before attending the ceremony, Mr Chan and Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau Commissioner for Sports Sam Wong went to the athletes' village to meet its mayor Li Huolin and some Hong Kong athletes.

On behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Mr Chan expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Hangzhou for rendering meticulous care to the Hong Kong, China delegation, enabling them to concentrate on striving for excellence.

He also expressed his recognition once again of the Hong Kong athletes' professional performance and perseverance during the Asian Games as well as the comprehensive arrangements and support from the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China to the delegation.

The Chief Secretary will return to Hong Kong tomorrow.