Business tycoon Li Ka-shing jointed President Wen Jiabao and British Primier Tony Blair to praise Tung Chee-hwa, saying that under Tung's leadershio Hong Kong was able to forge closer economic ties with the Chinese mainland.

"Throughout his eight years' service as chief executive, Tung has worked hard to engineer Hong Kong's economic recovery," Li said.

"Under his leadership we were able to build a meaningful and close economic cooperation with the Chinese mainland," said Li, whose Hutchison Whampoa conglomerate dominates Hong Kong's economy.

"Though his effort, not only did the innovative 'one country, two systems' model gain international recognition, he further strengthened Hong Kong's understanding and trust of the mainland government," Li said.

He added he has faith that Tung's successor -widely expected to be deputy leader Donald Tsang-will be a worthy leader.

"I am certain that the succeeding chief executive, who will serve Hong Kong with dedication and devotion, would earn the support of the Hong Kong people, I have full confidence in Hong Kong's future."

Editor: Olivia