BEIJING - China's State Council, or cabinet, Wednesday appointed Leung Chun-ying as the new chief executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

According to the decision made at a meeting presided over by Premier Wen Jiabao, Leung will take office on July 1.

The next Hong Kong Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying celebrates after winning the chief executive election, at a vote counting station in Hong Kong March 25, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]

The HKSAR held the election for the fourth-term chief executive on Sunday morning. Leung won 689 votes of the 1,132 votes cast by members of the 1,200-member Election Committee.

The election was conducted in line with the Basic Law and relevant laws of the HKSAR and its result showed that Hong Kong society has recognition, trust and expectation for Leung, according to Wen.

The central government will firmly implement the principle of "One country, Two systems," "Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong" with a high degree of autonomy, and fully support the work of the HKSAR government and its chief executive, he said.

The central government will support Hong Kong's government to manage risks and challenges from the international economy, and maintain the economic stability and prosperity of Hong Kong, the premier added.

"We believe Mr Leung Chun-ying, after taking office, will lead the HKSAR government and unite people from all walks of Hong Kong society, carrying forward the cause and forging ahead into the future," Wen said. "He shall work together with others to boost the local economy, improve people's livelihoods, promote democracy and maintain social harmony."