China's Vice-Premier Li Keqiang expressed sincere regards to the people of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as he arrived in the SAR at 11:30am on Tuesday.

Chinese Vice-Premier Li Keqiang meets Hong Kong's Chief Executive Donald Tsang at Mr Li's hotel in Hong Kong, August 16, 2011.[Edmond Tang/China Daily]

"The major purpose for my visit to Hong Kong this time is to attend the forum on China's 12th Five-year Plan and to discuss the economic, trade, and financial development between the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong," said Li, adding that the trip is also intended to show the Central government's support for Hong Kong's further development in trade and finance.

He added that new policies and measures will be introduced to make the cross-border relationship even stronger.

The vice-premier promised to reveal more details during Wednesday's forum.

"I hope that by visiting, seeing and listening, my understanding toward Hong Kong can be broadened," he said.

Li was greeted by Chief Executive Donald Tsang along with officials from the SAR government and the territory's liaison office.

Later today he will have a short talk with Tsang, after which he will visit low and middle income families, a care center for elderly, the Housing Authority, business representatives and professionals

This is the first time Li visited Hong Kong in his capacity of Vice-Premier. His visit will last for three days.