BEIJING - China's State Council on Tuesday appointed Tang Ping-keung as Commissioner of Police of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), replacing Lo Wai-chung.

The decision was made in accordance with the HKSAR Basic Law, and based on the nomination and suggestion of HKSAR's Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor.

According to a HKSAR government press release issued Tuesday morning, Lam expressed her confidence in Tang leading the Hong Kong Police Force. "Mr Tang has served in the Hong Kong Police Force for over 30 years and has extensive experience in criminal investigation, international liaison as well as operational command," Lam was quoted as saying.

On behalf of the HKSAR government, Lam conveyed her appreciation to Lo's contribution to the HKSAR and commended him for his efforts in maintaining the HKSAR as "one of the safest cities in the world".

"He has demonstrated dedication and determination in safeguarding Hong Kong and upholding the rule of law in dealing with the social unrests in the past few months," Lam was quoted as saying.