HONG KONG, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Commander of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Garrison in Hong Kong Lieutenant General Wang Jitang said here Saturday the Hong Kong Garrison had established close cooperation and friendly relationship with the Hong Kong police since they came to station in the territory to undertake defense duties in 1997.

    When inspecting a passing-out parade at the Hong Kong Police College held here Saturday, Wang, on behalf of every member of the HK Garrison, expressed appreciation to the Police Force for giving them concern, support and assistance during the past years.

    "The Hong Kong Police is an outstanding disciplined force, well noted for being well trained, adopting a fine style of work, showing high regard to the posts and dedication to work as well as its high quality and competency," Wang said.

    Wang said Hong Kong was met with new challenges of various natures since its return to the Chinese motherland and the Hong Kong Police tackled the problems calmly, completed each and every important task brilliantly and made remarkable contribution to the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong.

    Wang congratulated the graduating officers on successfully completing rigorous training and passing each and every test required.

    Believing that the officers would dare to take on heavy responsibilities and striving for excellence in the policing routines that lay ahead, Wang said he was confident that they would do good service for Hong Kong and make further contribution in the promotion of economic prosperity and social stability of Hong Kong and safeguarding the well being of its residents.

    Wang said the Hong Kong Garrison, since stationing in the territory to undertake the glorious duty to take care of defense matters, had all along been enthusiastically and thoroughly following the great principle of "One Country, Two Systems", working unsparingly hard to uphold the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong.

    The Garrison had been conducting its activities in accordance with the law and managing the army in compliance with the principle of strict discipline, Wang said, adding that they had embarked on construction in an all-round manner and would go for continual development.

    He told the graduating officers that the Hong Kong Garrison was willing to strengthen exchange and communication with the police force to enhance understanding and friendship between the two sides and work hand in hand to serve Hong Kong and render good service to the motherland.