Mourning Vice-Chairman Cheng Siwei's passing

Soon after I arrived in Beijing at around noon today, I learned from the press that Mr Cheng Siwei, former Vice-Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC) and a renowned economist, had died of illness in the early hours. My heart suddenly felt heavy.

Mr Cheng's connection with Hong Kong dated back to the 1940s (1943-49) when he studied at Heung To Middle School in Hong Kong. During his time in office as NPCSC Vice-Chairman, he visited Hong Kong several times. He cared about the affairs of Hong Kong very much.

Like his father, who was a newspaperman, he insisted on telling the truth and speaking his mind. From time to time, he expressed insightful views on Hong Kong's development.

I am truly grateful to Mr Cheng for his care and contributions to Hong Kong. To his family, I extend my deepest condolences.

July 12, 2015