The Chinese central government has appointed Lee Ming Kwai as the new Commissioner of Police of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government, a government press release said Friday.

Lee will take up the post with effect from Dec. 10, 2003 upon the retirement of incumbent commissioner Tsang Yam-pui.

Commenting on the appointment of Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Tung Chee Hwa noted that Lee, who has served in the Hong Kong police force for nearly 31 years, has thorough understanding of the work of the police force and has devoted himself to improving its efficiency and professionalism.

"I am confident that he will effectively lead the Police Force in meeting the challenges ahead," Tung noted.

Speaking on the retirement of Tsang Yam-pui, the chief executive said that Tsang has demonstrated excellent foresight and remarkable leadership since he took up the appointment as commissioner of police in 2001.

Lee Ming-kwai, aged 53, joined the Hong Kong Police Force in December 1972 as a Probationary Inspector. Lee was promoted to the rank of Deputy Commissioner of Police in 2001 and has been assigned the duties of Deputy Commissioner of Police (Management) and Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations).

(Xinhua News Agency December 5, 2003)